Non-dehiscent pygmy sesame variety sesaco 70

ABSTRACT

Pygmy sesame line ( Sesamum indicum  L.) having a homozygous allele (py/py) and improved non-dehiscence (IND) is disclosed. A variety thereof (py/py) sesame designated Sesaco 70 (S70) is herein disclosed. Its degree of shatter resistance, or seed retention, makes S70 suitable for mechanized harvesting.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a new pygmy Sesamum indicum L. variety withimproved non-dehiscence appropriate for mechanized harvesting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sesame, or Sesamum indicum, is a tropical annual cultivated worldwidefor its oil and its nut flavored seeds. The sesame plant grows to aheight of about 52-249 cm, and at its leaf axils are found capsuleswhich contain the sesame seed. Upon maturity in nature, the capsulesholding the sesame seeds begin to dry down, the capsules normally splitopen, and the seeds fall out. Commercially, the harvester tries torecover as much seed as possible from mature capsules. From ancienttimes through the present, the opening of the capsule has been the majorfactor in attempting to successfully collect the seed. Harvestingmethods, weather, and plant characteristics all contribute to the amountof seed recovered.

The majority of the world's sesame is harvested manually. With manualnon-mechanized methods, it is desirable for the sesame seed to fallreadily from the plant. Manual harvesting is labor intensive. Efforts tomechanize or partially mechanize harvesting met with limited success.

A breakthrough was accomplished when non-dehiscent (ND) sesame wasdeveloped and patented by Derald Ray Langham. ND sesame was found topossess the proper characteristics which would enable mechanicalharvesting without the seed loss disadvantages reported with priorvarieties.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,100,452, 6,815,576, 6,781,031, 7,148,403, and 7,332,652each disclose and claim non-dehiscent sesame cultivars having variouscharacteristics.

An improved non-dehiscent sesame (IND) class of sesame was laterdeveloped by Derald Ray Langham. IND sesame, through increasedconstriction, better adhesion between the false membranes, and improvedplacenta attachment, holds more seed than prior sesame types, asmeasured four weeks after a crop is ready for harvest (could have beencombined). The IND characteristics offer advantages for certain growingapplications.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/041,257, filed Mar. 3, 2008discloses a method for breeding improved non-dehiscent sesame (IND).U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/041,205, filed Mar. 3, 2008discloses an improved non-dehiscent sesame cultivar S32, representativeseed having been deposited under ATCC accession number PTA-8888. S32 isa stable, commercially suitable sesame line providing improvednon-dehiscence, higher yield, and shorter drydown phase.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/049,705, filed Mar. 17, 2008discloses an improved non-dehiscent sesame cultivar S30, representativeseed having been deposited under ATCC accession number PTA-8887. S30 isa stable, commercially suitable sesame line providing improvednon-dehiscence, higher yield, and shorter drydown phase.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/533,972, filed Jul. 31, 2009discloses an improved non-dehiscent sesame cultivar S27, representativeseed having been deposited under ATCC accession number PTA-10184. S27 isa stable, commercially suitable sesame line providing improvednon-dehiscence, higher yield, and shorter drydown phase.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/565,095, filed Sep. 23, 2009discloses a non-dehiscent black sesame cultivar S55, representative seedhaving been deposited under ATCC accession number PTA-10185. S55 is astable, commercially suitable sesame line providing the only blacksesame that can be mechanically harvested.

Although sesame plants which are shorter than about 110 cm have beendeveloped in order to attempt to increase the harvest index (the weightof the seed divided by the weight of the plant to include the seed),heretofore no known sesame plant in this height range exhibited ND orIND characteristics. Without ND or IND characteristics, shorter sesameplants have to be manually harvested. Such shorter plants present adisadvantage in manual harvesting because the worker has to bend overfurther to make a cut below the lowest capsule.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the invention comprises a pygmy sesame line having a(py/py) allele and improved non-dehiscence.

In one aspect, the invention comprises a seed of sesame varietydesignated Sesaco 70 (S70), a sample of said seed having been depositedunder ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts the lineage of S70.

FIGS. 2 through 11 compare Sesaco 70 (S70) to the Sesaco patentedvarieties: Sesaco 25 (S25), Sesaco 26 (S26), Sesaco 27 (S27), Sesaco 28(S28), Sesaco 29 (S29), Sesaco 30 (S30), Sesaco 32 (S32), and Sesaco 55(S55).

FIG. 2 depicts a comparison of the percent of seed retention duringShaker Shatter Resistance testing from 1997 to 2008.

FIG. 3 depicts a comparison of the mean improved non-dehiscent visualrating in Uvalde, Tex., and Lorenzo, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 4 depicts a comparison of the plant architecture in terms of Heightof the First Capsule and Capsule Zone Length in Uvalde, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 5 depicts a comparison of the Average Internode Length withinCapsule Zone in Uvalde, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 6 depicts a comparison of the number of capsule node pairs inUvalde, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 7 depicts a comparison of the composite kill resistance ratings inUvalde, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 8 depicts a comparison of the mean days to physiological maturityin Uvalde, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 9 depicts a comparison of the yield at drydown in Uvalde, Tex., andLorenzo, Tex., in 2008.

FIG. 10 depicts a comparison of the mean weight of 100 seeds in gramsfrom 1997 to 2008.

FIG. 11 depicts a comparison of the lodging resistance rating in Uvalde,Tex., in 2007.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Herein disclosed is a new pygmy sesame variety designated Sesaco 70(S70), which is homozygous for a pygmy allele (py/py) and exhibitsimproved non-dehiscence (IND), rendering it suitable for mechanicalharvesting. The “pygmy” sesame described averages approximately 85 cm inheight, but the height may be somewhat greater than 85 cm or less than85 cm depending on the environment. The height measurement is made afterthe plants stop flowering.

The height of pygmy sesame is dependent on several environmentalfactors, including the amount of moisture, heat, fertility, andpopulation. Higher values for moisture, heat and fertility generallyinfluence an increase in height. In a high population, the height willonly increase if there is adequate fertility and moisture; otherwise,the height will be shorter. In low light intensities, the plants aregenerally taller. In the field, the range of heights for pygmy sesame isgenerally 52 to 110 cm.

Pygmy IND as disclosed herein is distinguishable from sesame heretoforedescribed as “dwarf” varieties (described in Japan, China and Korea).“Pygmy” IND is homozygous for a pygmy allele (py/py) and has a shorterHEIGHT OF THE PLANT (Character No. 5 in Table II), a lower HEIGHT OF THEFIRST CAPSULE (Character No. 6 in Table II), and a shorter AVERAGEINTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE (Character No. 9 in Table II) thanall known varieties released and grown commercially in the world.

A pure pygmy line can be proved by crossing the line with a known pygmy(py/py). If all of the plants in the F1 of the cross with the knownpygmy exhibit a short height, low first capsule height, and shortinternode, the pygmy line in question is pure py/py. This is because thepygmy allele in a heterozygous condition (PY/py) does not exhibit theshorter height, lower first capsule, or shorter internode. In otherwords, heterozygous (PY/py) of the F1 generation, do not exhibit anyintermediate characters. Height, first capsule height, and internodelength are similar to the normal parent without the pygmy allele.

The pygmy sesame line of the invention can be planted using close rowspacing without exhibiting spindly stems which are generally exhibitedby other varieties planted in close row spacing. Pygmy sesame has ashorter AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE which keeps theplants from exhibiting spindly stems, in comparison to prior varieties.By “close row spacing” it is meant that the rows are between about 15 toabout 30 cm apart, whereas standard row spacing is between about 76 andabout 102 cm apart. The ability to grow in close row spacing withoutexhibiting spindly stems prevents or inhibits lodging of the plants. Theshorter height presents less of a profile to wind, and there is lesslodging pressure. In addition, there are lower wind speeds closer to theground.

Close row spacing is advantageous because the plants provide a canopymore rapidly, thereby inhibiting weed growth. Weeds are “shaded out” bya canopy because weeds sprouting from the ground under the canopy die orare stunted from the lack of sunlight. By planting in closer rowspacing, the farmer has lower inputs (e.g. lower resources that are usedin farm production, such as chemicals, equipment, feed, seed, andenergy) since he does not have to cultivate (weed). Pygmy sesame plantedin 15 to 20 cm rows can be used in a method of sesame agriculture whichomits the step of cultivation. Omitting the cultivation is advantageousin that it reduces the growing costs since cultivation requires fuel(diesel), operator hours, and maintenance.

The pygmy sesame line of the invention can also thrive with more plantsper linear meter and make the practice of overplanting more productive.Farmers generally engage in the practice of overplanting in order toensure the maximum production of their acreage. If normal height sesameis planted, and the overplanting results in more than 10 plants perlinear meter, some plants will shade out others. The shaded plantseither die out, resulting in self-thinning, or survive as “minor plants”as defined in Langham, D. R. 2007. “Phenology of sesame,” In: J. Janickand A. Whipkey (ed.), Issues in New Crops and New Uses, ASHS Press,Alexandria, Va. The minor plants do not produce a commensurate amount ofseed for the moisture and nutrients that the minor plants use. Incontrast, when pygmy sesame according to the invention is overplanted,less shading occurs with a high population within a row. The minorplants are more productive.

The pygmy sesame of the invention also exhibits IND which allowsmechanical harvesting. The shorter height of the pygmy sesame IND ascompared with other IND provides an advantage in harvesting. Shorterplants are easier to combine with modern equipment because the reel doesnot push the plants forward before pulling them into the combine header.As a result there is less shatter loss and fewer plants that are pushedforward under the header. Within the combine header, the pygmy plants donot bridge over the auger as do taller varieties. In addition, by havinga higher harvest index it is easier to separate the sesame from thetrash in the combine.

Pygmy sesame lines have shown higher yields than existing varieties inlow input conditions (less moisture and/or fertility) because theyexpend fewer resources making stems and leaves and use the scarceresources in making seed.

In the subsequent paragraphs, further detail about the pygmy sesame lineof the invention and comparisons with other sesame lines is provided.

Sesame plants have been studied for their response to seasonal andclimatic changes and the environment in which they live during thedifferent phases and stages of growth and development. This type ofstudy, called “phenology” has been documented by the inventor inLangham, D. R. 2007. “Phenology of sesame,” In: J. Janick and A. Whipkey(ed.), Issues in New Crops and New Uses, ASHS Press, Alexandria, Va.,referenced supra.

Table I summarizes the phases and stages of sesame, and will be usefulin describing the present invention.

TABLE I Phases and stages of sesame Abbre- No. Stage/Phase viation Endpoint of stage DAP^(z) weeks Vegetative VG Germination GR Emergence 0-5  1− Seedling SD 3^(rd) pair true leaf  6-25  3− length = 2^(nd)Juvenile JV First buds  26-37  1+ Pre-reproductive PP 50% open flowers 38-44  1− Reproductive RP Early bloom EB 5 node pairs of capsules 45-52  1 Mid bloom MB Branches/minor plants  53-81  4 stop floweringLate bloom LB 90% of plants with no  82-90  1+ open flowers Ripening RIPhysiological maturity  91-106 2+ (PM) Drying DR Full maturity FM Allseed mature 107-112 1− Initial drydown ID 1^(st) dry capsules 113-126 2Late drydown LD Full drydown 127-146 3 ^(z)DAP = days after planting.These numbers are based on S26 in 2004 Uvalde, Texas, under irrigation.

There are several concepts and terms that are used in this document thatshould be defined. In the initial drydown stage in Table I, the capsulesbegin to dry and open. This stage ends when 10% of the plants have oneor more dry capsules. The late drydown stage ends when the plants aredry enough so that upon harvest, the seed has a moisture of 6% or less.At this point some of the capsules have been dry for 5 weeks in theexample used in Table I, but in other environments for other varieties,the drying can stretch to 7 weeks. The “ideal harvest time” is at theend of the late drying stage. At this point, a combine (also sometimesreferred to as a combine harvester, a machine that combines the tasks ofharvesting, threshing, and cleaning grain crops) can be used to cut andthresh the plants and separate the seed from the undesired plantmaterial. However, at times, weather may prevent harvest at the idealtime. The plants may have to remain in the field for as much as anadditional four weeks, and in some cases even longer. Thus, time t₀corresponds to the ideal harvest time and time t₁, which corresponds tothe time the grower actually harvests the sesame is a time later thantime t₀.

Sesame cultivar Sesaco 70 (hereinafter “S70”) is a variety whichexhibits Improved Non-Dehiscence (IND) characteristics and desirablecharacteristics which make it a commercially suitable sesame line. INDcharacteristics are defined in comparison to non-dehiscence (ND)characteristics first described and defined by the inventor in U.S. Pat.No. 6,100,452. Compared to ND sesame, IND sesame has more seed in thecapsules when measured between 4 and 9 weeks after the ideal harvesttime.

Without wishing to be bound by one particular theory, it is believedthat this increased amount of seed in the capsules is may be due to theIND variety having the ability to better withstand adverse environmentalconditions such as inclement or harsh weather. Examples of adverseweather conditions as to which IND has been subjected to in this regardare rain, fog, dew, and wind. S70 variety has been tested and meets thecriteria of IND.

Filed and commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/041,257,filed Mar. 3, 2008 is herein incorporated by reference as if fully setforth herein. This application discloses Improved Non-Dehiscent Sesameand the present invention. S70 is an example of a variety which resultedfrom breeding methods described therein. Concurrently filed and commonlyowned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/769,475, is hereinincorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. This patentdiscloses Pygmy Sesame Plants for Mechanical Harvesting and the presentinvention. S70 is an example of a variety which resulted from breedingmethods described therein.

S70 exhibits improved shatter resistance, acceptable resistance tocommon fungal diseases, and a maturity that allows a wide geographicalrange. Further, S70 exhibits higher yield in geographical locationsdesirable for sesame planting, and exhibits desirable seed size and seedcolor. S70 is suitable for planting in areas that have approximately a21° C. ground temperature when planted in the spring and nighttemperatures above 5° C. for normal termination. An exemplary desirablegeographical area for S70 is from South Texas at the Rio Grande tosouthern Kansas and from east Texas westward to elevations below 1,000meters.

Other exemplary areas are areas of the United States or of the worldwhich areas have similar climatic conditions and elevations.

The pedigree method of plant breeding was used to develop S70. Sesame isgenerally self-pollinated. Crossing is done using standard techniques asdelineated in Yermanos, D. M. 1980. “Sesame. Hybridization of cropplants,” Am Soc Agronomy-Crop Sci of America, pp. 549-563 and U.S. Pat.No. 6,100,452. Ashri provides an overview of sesame breeding in Ashri,A. (1998). “Sesame breeding,” Plant Breed. Rev. 16:179-228 and Ashri, A.2007. Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). In: R. J. Singh, Ed., GeneticResources, Chromosome Engineering, and Crop Improvement, Vol. 4, OilseedCrops, p. 231-289, CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fla., USA.

The lineage of S70 is presented in FIG. 1.

K28p (1) was a line obtained from Churl Kahn from the Republic of Koreain 1992 and first planted in the Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in1993. Within Sesaco, K28 first carried the identifier 1838 and was laterchanged to TK28 and then to TK28p.

G8 (2) was a line obtained from D. G. Langham in 1977 and first plantedby Sesaco in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It was aselection from the cultivar ‘Guacara’ which D. G. Langham developed inVenezuela in the 1950s. Guacara was an initial selection from a crossthat later produced one of the major varieties in Venezuela—Aceitera.Within Sesaco, G8 first carried the identifier X011 and was laterchanged to TG8.

111 (3) was a line obtained from the NPGS (PI173955) in 1979 and firstplanted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. NPGSobtained it in 1949 from W. N. Koelz, USDA, Beltsville, Md. who obtainedit from India. Within Sesaco, 111 first carried the identifier 0858 andwas then changed to X111. In 1985, a selection of this line becameSesaco 4 (S04).

192 (4) was a line obtained from the M. L. Kinman in 1980 and firstplanted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. Theline was originally T61429-B-4-1-3 from the Kinman USDA sesame program,College Station, Tex., which had been in cold storage at Ft. Collins,Colo. In 1997, the line was transferred to the NPGS, Griffin, Ga. andgiven the identifier PI599462. Within Sesaco, 192 first carried theidentifier 1479 and then was changed to X191 and X193. In 1985, aselection from X193 became Sesaco 3 (S03) and a selection of X191 becameSesaco 7 (S07).

V52 (5) was a cultivar designated as SF075 obtained from the SesamumFoundation (D. G. Langham, Fallbrook, Calif.) collection in 1977 andfirst planted by Sesaco in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978.The Sesamum Foundation obtained it from B. Mazzani (Maracay, Venezuela)in 1960. Originally, it was a cultivar known as Venezuela 52 developedby D. G. Langham in the 1940s. Within Sesaco, V52 first carried theidentifier 0075 and was later changed to TV52.

SOMALIA (6) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI210687) in 1979 andfirst planted in Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. The NGPSobtained it from the Administrazione Fiduciaria Italiana della Somalia,Mogadishu, Somalia. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0730.

118 (7) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI425944) in 1979 and firstplanted in Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. The NGPS obtained itin 1978 from P. F. Knowles, University of California, Davis, Calif., whocollected it in Pakistan. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 1118and then changed to X118 and then to T118.

193 (8) was a selection from 192 which was a line obtained from the M.L. Kinman in 1980 and first planted by Sesaco in the Woods nursery(Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The line was originally T61429-B-4-1-3 fromthe Kinman USDA sesame program, College Station, Tex., which had been incold storage at Ft. Collins, Colo. In 1997, the line was transferred tothe NPGS, Griffin, Ga. and given the identifier PI599462. Within Sesaco,192 first carried the identifier 1479 and then was changed to X191 andX193. In 1985, a selection from X193 became Sesaco 3 (S03) and aselection of X191 became Sesaco 7 (S07).

MAX (9) was a line designated as SF116 obtained from the SesamumFoundation (D. G. Langham, Fallbrook, Calif.) in 1977 and first plantedin the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. The Sesamum Foundationobtained it from Maximo Rodriguez in 1961. He had collected it fromMexico where it was known as Instituto Regional Canasta. Within Sesaco,it carried the identifier 0116 and then changed to TMAX.

R234 (10) was a named variety obtained from D. M. Yermanos in 1978 fromhis sesame program at the University of California at Riverside. It wasfirst planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. WithinSesaco, it carried the identifier 0544 and then changed to T234.

958 (11) was a line obtained from the Sesamum Foundation in 1977 andfirst planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It wasobtained with a designator of SF411 and was named G958-1. The SesamumFoundation obtained it from John Martin in 1962 who had obtained it fromthe D. G. Langham breeding program in Venezuela. Within Sesaco, G958-1carried the identifier 0411.

982 (12) was a line obtained from the Sesamum Foundation in 1977 andfirst planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It wasobtained with a designator of SF477 and was named G53.98-2. The SesamumFoundation obtained it from John Martin in 1962 who had obtained it fromthe D. G. Langham breeding program in Venezuela. G53.98-2 was a crossmade by D. G. Langham in 1953 in Guacara, Venezuela. Within Sesaco, 982carried the identifier 0477 and then changed to T982.

G53.80-1 (13) was a line obtained from the Sesamum Foundation in 1977and first planted in the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. It wasobtained with a designator of SF471. The Sesamum Foundation obtained itfrom John Martin in 1962 who had obtained it from the D. G. Langhambreeding program in Venezuela. G53.80-1 was a cross made by D. G.Langham in 1953 in Guacara, Venezuela. Within Sesaco, G53.80-1 carriedthe identifier 0471.

701 (14) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI292145) in 1979 and firstplanted in Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The NGPS obtained itin 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S.,which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A.Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. Thematerial is similar to introductions from the Indian subcontinent.Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier 0701 and then changed to X701.In 1984, a selection from X701 became Sesaco 5 (S05).

111X (15) was an outcross in the 111 (2) plot BT0458 in the Nickersonnursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifierE0745 and later changed to T111X.

888 (16) was a cross between 192 (4) and V52 (5) made by Sesaco in theNickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, 888 firstcarried the identifier F888 and then changed to T888.

H6778 (17) was a cross between Somalia (6) and 118 (7) made by Sesaco inthe Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carriedthe identifier H6778.

R234 TALL (18) was an outcross in the R234 (10) strip in the Kammannursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, it carried theidentifier X026.

045 (19) was a cross between G8 (2) and 958 (11) made by Sesaco in theKamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1978. Within Sesaco, it carried theidentifier B045 and then changed to T045.

036 (20) was a cross between 982 (12) and G53.80-1 (13) made by Sesacoin the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, itcarried the identifier C036 and then X036. In 1984, a selection fromX036 became Sesaco 6 (S06).

195 (21) was an outcross selected in the 192 (4) in plot MN4584 in theMcElhaney nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1983. Within Sesaco, it carriedthe identifier E0690 and then changed to X195.

S11 (22) was a cross between G8 (2) and 111X (15) made by Sesaco in theNickerson nursery (Yuma, Ariz.) in 1982. Within Sesaco, it has carriedthe identifier F804; in 1988, a selection of this line became Sesaco 11(S11).

076 (23) was a cross between MAX (9) and R234 TALL (18) made by Sesacoin the Kamman nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1979. Within Sesaco, itcarried the identifier C076 and then changed to T076.

H6432 (24) was a cross between 193 (8) and 076 (23) made between bySesaco in the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco,it carried the identifier H6432.

H6785 (25) was a cross between 045 (19) and 036 (20) made by Sesaco inthe Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carriedthe identifier H6785.

H6562 (26) was a cross between 195 (21) and 701 (14) made by Sesaco inthe Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carriedthe identifier H6562.

J3208 (27) was a cross between H6778 (17) and H6432 (24) made by Sesacoin the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1985. Within Sesaco, itcarried the identifier J3208.

J3222 (28) was a cross between H6785 (25) and H6562 (26) made by Sesacoin the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1985. Within Sesaco, itcarried the identifier J3222.

K3255 (29) was a cross between J3208 (27) and J3222 (28) made by Sesacoin the Hancock nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1986. Within Sesaco, itcarried the identifier K3255.

88F (30) was a cross between S11 (22) and 888 (16) made by Sesaco in theSharp nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1988. Within Sesaco, it carried theidentifier LCE01 and then changed to X88F and then T88F.

S16 (31) was a cross between K3255 (29) and S11 (22) made by Sesaco inthe Wright nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1987. Within Sesaco, it carried theidentifier KAP11 and then changed to XFXA. In 1991, a selection fromXFXA became Sesaco 16 (S16).

702 (32) was a line obtained from the NGPS (PI292146) in 1979 and firstplanted in Woods nursery (Wellton, Ariz.) in 1981. The NGPS obtained itin 1963 from Hybritech Seed International, a unit of Monsanto, U.S.,which obtained it from Israel. In viewing this material in 1986, A.Ashri of Israel concluded that it was an introduction to Israel. Thematerial is similar to introductions from the Indian subcontinent.Within Sesaco, it has carried the identifier 0702.

BI791 (33) was a cross between 88F (30) and S16 (31) made by Sesaco inthe Gilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in 1992. Within Sesaco, it carriedthe identifier BI791.

72A (34) was an outcross selected in the 702 (15) strip SL2140 in theRamsey nursery in 1984. Within Sesaco, it carried the identifier X702Aand then T72A.

S17 (35) was a cross between S11 (22) and 72A (34) made by Sesaco in theWright nursery (Roll, Ariz.) in 1987. Within Sesaco, it carried theidentifier KAN22 and then changed to X7AB. In 1992, a selection fromX7AB because Sesaco 17 (S17).

S27 (36) was a cross between BI791 (33) and S17 (35) made by Sesaco inthe Friesenhahn nursery (Knippa, Tex.) in 1994. Within Sesaco, itcarried the identifier, CM586 and then changed to X88K. A selectionbecame Sesaco 27 (S27).

S70 (37) was a cross between K28p (1) and S27 (36) made by Sesaco in theGilleland nursery (Uvalde, Tex.) in Year 1 (hereinafter “Year” isabbreviated as “YR”). The original designator was KK654.

The seed (K654) was planted in plot XR05 in the Schwartz nursery (Wall,Tex.) in YR2. Two plants were selected because they had a good internodelength.

The seed of one of the plants (0471) was planted in plot 2470 in thePanther City nursery (Batesville, Tex.) in YR3. Two volunteer plantsfrom seed that had fallen from the plot were selected based on hold on avery low plant at the end of the nursery.

The seed from one of the plants (3623) was planted in plot D018 in theChapman nursery (Lorenzo, Tex.) in YR4. The designator was changed todK654. One plant was selected based on final hold at the end of thenursery, a long capsule zone on a short plant, and very good lodgingafter winds over 50 MPH.

The seed from this plant (1804) was planted in plot B501 in the Chapmannursery in YR5. Two bulks were selected based on being taller thansister selections, very low plant height with a short internode length,and good hold at the end of the nursery.

The seed from these bulks (2209, and 2286) were planted in 2 plots (WE01and WE04) in the Gilleland nursery and 2 plots (D001 and D004) in theChapman nursery in YR6. Four bulks were selected from these 4 plotsbased on having excellent hold on the last day of the nurseries. Thedesignator was changed to XD55p.

The seed from these four bulks were planted in strips (VF54n throughVF71n) in the Gilleland nursery in YR7. Most of the seed from thesestrips was harvested for testing in farmer fields.

The materials were bulked and planted on farmer experimental fields fortesting under commercial conditions in 2008. The seed was designatedS70.

Along with breeding programs, tissue culture of sesame is currentlybeing practiced in such areas of the world as Korea, Japan, China,India, Sri Lanka and the United States. One of ordinary skill in the artmay utilize sesame plants grown from tissue culture as parental lines inthe production of non-dehiscent sesame. Further IND sesame may bepropagated through tissue culture methods. By means well known in theart, sesame plants can be regenerated from tissue culture having all thephysiological and morphological characteristics of the source plant.

The present invention includes the seed of sesame variety S70 depositedunder ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272; a sesame plant or parts thereofproduced by growing the seed deposited under ATCC Accession No.PTA-9272; sesame plants having all the physiological and morphologicalcharacteristics of sesame variety S70; and sesame plants having all thephysiological and morphological characteristics of a sesame plantproduced by growing the seed deposited under ATCC Accession No.PTA-9272. The present invention also includes a tissue culture ofregenerable cells produced from the seed having been deposited underATCC Accession No. PTA-9272 or a tissue culture of regenerable cellsfrom sesame variety S70 or a part thereof produced by growing the seedof sesame variety S70 having been deposited under ATCC Accession No.PTA-9272. A sesame plant regenerated from a tissue culture ofregenerable cells produced from the seed having been deposited underATCC Accession No. PTA-9272 or from sesame variety S70, wherein theregenerated sesame plant has all the physiological and morphologicalcharacteristics of sesame variety S70 is also contemplated by thepresent invention. Methods of producing sesame seed, comprising crossinga first parent sesame plant with a second parent sesame plant, whereinthe first or second parent sesame plant was produced by seed having beendeposited under ATCC Patent Deposit Designation No. PTA-9272 is part ofthe present invention.

Unless otherwise stated, as used herein, the term plant includes plantcells, plant protoplasts, plant cell tissue cultures from which sesameplants can be regenerated, plant calli, plant clumps, plant cells thatare intact in plants, or parts of plants, such as embryos, pollen,ovules, flowers, capsules, stems, leaves, seeds, roots, root tips, andthe like. Further, unless otherwise stated, as used herein, the termprogeny includes plants derived from plant cells, plant protoplasts,plant cell tissue cultures from which sesame plants can be regenerated,plant calli, plant clumps, plant cells that are intact in plants, orparts of plants, such as embryos, pollen, ovules, flowers, capsules,stems, leaves, seeds, roots, root tips, and the like.

Sesame cultivar S70 has been tested experimentally over several yearsunder various growing conditions ranging from South Texas to NorthernTexas. Sesame cultivar S70 has shown uniformity and stability within thelimits of environmental influence for the characters listed in Table IIbelow. Table II provides the name, definition, and rating scale of eachcharacter as well as the method by which the character is measured.Under the rating section, the rating for S70 is presented in bold text.Additionally, the distribution of the character in Sesaco's sesamedevelopment program is indicated under the rating section. Sesaco usesslightly different character specifications from “Descriptors forsesame”, AGP:IBPGR/80/71, IBPGR Secretariat, Rome, (1981) and from theform “Sesame (Sesamum indicum)”, U.S. Department of Agriculture PlantVariety Protection Office, Beltsville, Md. The descriptors in thosedocuments were developed in the early 1980s and have not been updated toincorporate new concepts in sesame data collection.

Table II provides characteristics of S70 for forty-four (44) traits.Numerical ratings and values reported in this table were experimentallydetermined for S70 with prior sesame varieties in side by sidereplicated trials. Actual numerical values and ratings for a givenvariety will vary according to the environment, and the values andratings provided in Table II were obtained in the environment specifiedin the parenthetical following the S70 rating. Tables IV and V provide adirect comparison between the new S70 variety and the prior varietiesthus demonstrating the relative differences between the varieties in theside by side trials.

TABLE II Characters Distinguishing the S70 Line Character RatingMethodology (1) BRANCHING S70 genotype = B The amount of branching onany STYLE S70 phenotype = U particular plant depends on the space Thepotential amount of (All crops, all nurseries) around the plant. In highpopulations, true branching in a line Subjective rating based onbranching can be suppressed. This rating the following values: should bebased on potential as expressed U = Uniculm—no on end plants and plantsin the open. branching except weak True branches start in the leaf axilbranches in open below the first flower, and they begin to B = Truebranches emerge before the first open flower. As When S70 is crossedwith long as there is light into the leaf axils, other uniculm lineswithout there will be additional branches that start pygmy alleles(py/py) below the first branches in subsequently (Character No. 10),there lower nodes. Weak branches occur when will be branching in the F1a plant is in the open. They develop in the generation. This indicateslowest node pairs and subsequent that S70 has branching branches startat higher nodes. There are genes that are not lines that will not branchin any expressed because little circumstance. light reaches the junctionSome lines in the open will put on of the petiole to the stemspontaneous branches late in the cycle. where branches emerge. True andweak branches do not have a Thus, S70 has a branching capsule in thesame leaf axil, whereas the genotype but a uniculm spontaneous branchesform under the phenotype. capsule after the capsule has formed.Distribution within Sesaco Spontaneous branches are not counted as basedon stable lines in branches. the crossing program in There are rarelines where the flowering 1982-2001 (Total number pattern is to put onflowers on lower nodes of samples tested = 1,333) late in the cycle. Inthis case, the capsule U = 42.4% is formed after the branch isdeveloped. B = 57.6% This pattern should not be termed spontaneousbranching, and the branch is normally counted as a true branch. Thereare branched lines that have secondary branches on the branches. In afew cases, there can be tertiary branches. Additional branches generallyappear in low populations. COMMENTS: the effects of light appear to havemore of an effect on branching than moisture and fertility. Highpopulations suppress branching. There must be light to the growing tipin order for a branch to develop. (2) NUMBER OF S70 = 1 Rating can betaken from about 60 days CAPSULES PER LEAF (All crops,all nurseries)after planting through to the end of the AXIL Subjective rating based oncrop. The predominant the following values: NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAFnumber of capsules per 1 = Single AXIL is highly dependent on moisture,leaf axil in the middle 3 = Triple fertility, and light. In triplecapsule lines, the half of the capsule zone Based on potential ascentral capsule forms first, and axillary described in the methodologycapsules follow a few days later. Triple presented herein capsule lineshave the potential to put on Distribution within Sesaco axillaries, butwill not do so if plants do not based on stable lines in have adequatemoisture and/or fertility. In the crossing program in droughtconditions, some triple capsule 1982-2001 lines will produce only acentral capsule for of samples tested = 1,327) many nodes. In theselines, when there is 1 = 58.3% (Total number adequate moisture throughrain or irri- 3 = 41.7% gation, some will add axillary capsules on onlynew nodes, while others will add axillary capsules to all nodes. Sometriple capsule lines will not put on axillary capsules if there is nodirect sunlight on the leaf axil. To date, lines with single capsuleshave nectaries next to the central capsule in the middle of the capsulezone while triple capsules do not. However, some lines have what appearto be nectaries on the lower capsules of triple lines, but upon closeexamination, they are buds which may or may not eventually develop intoa flower and then a capsule. In most triple capsule lines, the lower andupper nodes have single capsules. There are some lines where the endplants can put on 5 capsules/leaf axil and a few that have the potentialto put on 7 capsules/leaf axil. 5 and 7 capsules only appear with openplants with high moisture and fertility. In some environments, singlecapsule lines will put on multiple capsules on 1 node and rarely on upto 5 nodes. These lines are not considered triple capsule lines. (3)MATURITY CLASS S70 = M for 98 days The basis for this data point is DAYSThe maturity of a line in (Uvalde nursery^(a,) 2005- TO PHYSIOLOGICALMATURITY relation to a standard 2008) (Character No. 30). S24 was thestandard line. Currently, the Subjective rating based on line to be usedto compute MATURITY standard line is S26 at the following values: CLASSin previous patents. In 1998-2001, 99 days V = Very early (<85 days) thematurity of S24 averaged 95 days in E = Early (85-94 days) the Uvalde,TX, nursery. Through 2006, M = Medium (95-104 the standard was adjustedusing S24. S26 days) was selected to establish a new standard. L = Late(105-114 days) In 2001-2006 S26 averaged 4 days longer T = Very late(>114 days) than S24. For each line, the physiological Distributionwithin Sesaco maturity for each year is subtracted by the based onstable lines in S26 maturity for that year in that nursery, the crossingprogram in and then the number of days of difference 1998-2001 (Totalnumber is averaged. The average is then added to of samples tested =650) 99. V = 1.2% See DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL E = 26.8% MATURITY(Character No. 30) for the M = 56.2% effects of the environment onMATURITY L = 12.9% CLASS. T = 2.9% (4) PLANT S70 = U1M (phenotype) Thefirst character is the BRANCHING PHENOTYPE (All crops; all nurseries)STYLE (Character No. 1), followed by the A three character Subjectiverating based on NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAF designation that thefollowing values: AXIL (Character No. 2), and then the provides thebranching BRANCHING STYLE MATURITY CLASS (Character No. 3). style,number of U = Uniculm—no When these characters are placed in a capsulesper leaf axil, branching except weak matrix, there are 20 potentialphenotypes. and the maturity class branches in open The phenotypeprovides an overview of B = True branches the general appearance of theplant. There NUMBER OF CAPSULES is a very high correlation between PERLEAF AXIL MATURITY CLASS and HEIGHT OF 1 = Single PLANT (Character No.5). 3 = Triple MATURITY CLASS V = Very early (<85 days) E = Early (85-94days) M = Medium (95-104 days) L = Late (105-114 days) T = Very late(>114 days) Distribution within Sesaco based on stable lines in thecrossing program in 1998-2001 (Total number of samples tested = 650) U1V= 0% U3V = 1.1% U1E = 3.8% U3E = 8.3% U1M = 16.0% U3M = 12.0% U1L = 3.4%U3L = 2.2% U1T = 0.5% U3T = 0.6% B1V = 0% B3V = 0.2% B1E = 8.0% B3E =6.3% B1M = 23.2% B3M = 4.8% B1L = 6.5% B3L = 1.0% B1T = 1.6% B3T = 0.4%(5) HEIGHT OF PLANT S70 = 85 cm The measurement is made after the Theheight of the plant (Uvalde nursery, 2008) plants stop flowering. Forplants that are from the ground to the Value based on an the not erector have lodged, the plant should top of the highest average of a minimumof be picked up for the measurement. In most capsule with viable threeplants (unit of lines the highest capsule is on the main seed measure:cm) stem. In lines with the dt/dt alleles Distribution within Sesaco(determinate), the highest capsule is on based on stable lines in thebranches. the crossing program in COMMENTS: this height is dependent1999-2001 (Total number on the amount of moisture, heat, fertility, ofsamples tested = 2,274) and population. Increased values generally low =56 cm; high = 249 increase the height. In a high population, cm theheight will only increase if there is 1 = <94.6 cm; 5.2% adequatefertility and moisture; otherwise, 2 = <133.2 cm; 34.6% the height willbe shorter. In low light 3 = <171.8 cm; 54.9% intensities, the heightsare generally taller. 4 = <210.4 cm; 5.1% 5 = >210.3 cm; 0.1% avg. =134.8 cm, std = 23.5 6) HEIGHT OF FIRST S70 = 27 cm The measurement ismade after the CAPSULE (Uvalde nursery, 2008) plants stop flowering. Forplants that are The height of the first Value based on an the not erector have lodged, the plant should capsule from the average of a minimumof be picked up for the measurement. In most ground to the bottom ofthree plants (unit of lines, the lowest capsule is on the main thelowest capsule on measure: cm) stem. True branches have capsules higherthe main stem Distribution within Sesaco than on the main stem exceptwhen the based on stable lines in flowers fall off the main stem. thecrossing program in Occasionally, on weak branches, the 1999-2001 (Totalnumber lowest capsule is on the branches. of samples tested = 2,274)There are lines that flower in the lower low = 20 cm; high = 193 nodeslate in the cycle, and thus, the cm measurement should be taken after 1= <54.6 cm; 52.7% flowering ends. In many lines the first 2 = <89.2 cm;45.5% flower does not make a capsule, and thus, 3 = <123.8 cm; 1.5% thisheight may not be the same as the 4 = <158.4 cm; 0.3% height of thefirst flower. 5 = >158.3 cm; 0.1% COMMENTS: see HEIGHT OF PLANT avg. =54.2 cm, std = 14.3 (Character No. 5) for effects of environmentalfactors (7) CAPSULE ZONE S70 = 58 cm The measurement is derived byLENGTH (Uvalde nursery, 2008) subtracting the HEIGHT OF FIRST The lengthof the Value based on an the CAPSULE (Character No. 6) from the capsulezone. The average of a minimum of HEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No. 5).capsule zone extends three plants (unit of COMMENTS: see HEIGHT OF PLANTfrom the bottom of the measure: cm) (Character No. 5) for effects oflowest capsule on the Distribution within Sesaco environmental factorsmain stem to the top of based on stable lines in the highest capsulewith the crossing program in viable on the main 1999-2001 (Total numberstem. of samples tested = 2,274) low = 18 cm; high = 188 cm 1 = <52 cm;4.7% 2 = <86 cm; 53.5% 3 = <120 cm; 41.3% 4 = <154 cm; 0.5% 5 = >153.9cm; 0.1% avg. = 80.6 cm, std = 17.2 (8) NUMBER OF S70 = 28 pairs Thecount is made after the plants stop CAPSULE NODE (Uvalde nursery, 2008)flowering. On opposite and alternate PAIRS Value based on an thearranged leaves, each pair of leaves is The number of capsule average ofa minimum of counted as one node pair. In some lines, node pairs fromthe three plants (unit of there are three leaves per node for at leastlowest capsule node to measure: number ) part of the plant, and thoseare counted as the highest node with Distribution within Sesaco one nodepair. In some plants, flowers may capsules with viable based on stablelines in not have produced capsules on one or seed on the main stem thecrossing program in more of the leaf axils in a node. These of the plant1999-2001 (Total number node pairs should still be counted. Node ofsamples tested = 2154) pairs on the branches are not counted. low = 10;high = 54 In years when the amount of moisture 1 = <18.8; 17.9%available to the plant is irregular, node 2 = <27.6; 48.3% pairs canbecome very irregular, 3 = <36.4; 29.5% particularly on triple capsulelines. In the 4 = <45.2; 3.6% upper portions of the plant, it may become5 = >45.1; 0.7% easier to count the capsule clusters and avg. = 25.3,std = 6.4 divide by 2. While it is possible to count node pairs afterleaves have fallen, it is much easier to count while the leaves arestill on the plant. COMMENTS: the number of node pairs is dependent onthe amount of moisture and fertility. Higher moisture and fertilityincreases the number of node pairs. (9) AVERAGE S70 = 2.1 cm Divide theCAPSULE ZONE LENGTH INTERNODE LENGTH (Uvalde nursery, 2007) (CharacterNo. 7) by the NUMBER OF WITHIN CAPSULE Value based on an the CAPSULENODE PAIRS (Character No. ZONE average of a minimum of 8). The averageinternode three plants (unit of COMMENTS: this length is dependentlength within the measure: cm) on the amount of moisture, fertility, andcapsule zone Distribution within Sesaco population. Increased valuesgenerally based on stable lines in increase the length. In a highpopulation, the crossing program in the length will only increase ifthere is 1999-2001 (Total number adequate fertility and moisture;otherwise of samples tested = 2145) the length will be shorter. In lowlight low = 1.09 cm; high = 8.09 intensities, the lengths are generallycm longer. 1 = <2.49 cm; 6.2% Past methodologies have measured the 2 =<3.89 cm; 74.6% internode length at the middle of the 3 = <5.29 cm;18.6% capsule zone. Some have measured it at 4 = <6.69 cm; 0.4% themedian node and others at the median 5 = >6.68 cm; 0.1% CAPSULE ZONELENGTH. avg. = 3.35 cm, std = 0.66 (10) PRESENCE OF S70 = py/py In thehomogygous condition. the pygmy PYGMY ALLELES (All crops; all nurseries)allele (py) reduces the HEIGHT OF THE The pygmy allele is a py/py =homozygous PLANT (Character No. 5), the HEIGHT OF new recessive genepygmy alleles THE FIRST CAPSULE (Character No. 6), that affects thegrowth PY/py = heterozygous and the AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH of thesesame plant. pygmy alleles WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE (Character No. PY/PY =normal (no 9). In the heterozygous state, there are no pygmy alleles)reductions in the characters. In a cross Distribution within Sesacobetween a homozygous pygmy and a based on stable lines in normal, thepygmy allele is a recessive the collection as of 2009 gene that will notshow the shorter heights (Total number of lines = and internode lengthsuntil segregating in 40,715) the F2 generation, with no intermediatespy/py = 145 between the pygmy and the normal line. A PY/py = 629homozygous pygmy selected in the F2, Normal = 39,941 from the F3generation on is pure in its effects on the three characters. Withinpygmy lines there are differences in the 3 characters, but all of thepygmies differ from the normal lines. The name “pygmy” was chosenbecause these lines are shorter than dwarf lines that have been in theworld germplasm for many years. The dwarf lines share the same threecharacters, but there are intermediates in the F2 generation and rarelyany plants as short as the original dwarf. (11) YIELD AT S70 = 1,220kg/ha On 3 replicated plots, when the plants DRYDOWN (Uvalde nursery,2008) are dry enough for direct harvest, cut a An extrapolation of theS70 = 742 kg/ha minimum of 1/5,000 of a hectare in the plot yield of afield by taking (Lorenzo nursery, 2008)^(b) (Sesaco uses 1/2620), andplace the sample yields Values based on the plants in a cloth bag.Thresh the sample in average of a minimum of a plot thresher and weighthe seed. three replications (unit of Multiply the weight by theappropriate measure: kg/ha) multiplier based on area taken to provideDistribution within Sesaco the extrapolated yield in kg/ha. based onstable lines in In the Almaco thresher there is about the crossingprogram in 3% trash left in the seed. Since yields are 1999-2001 (Totalnumber comparative, there is no cleaning of the of samples tested =1,828) seed done before the computation. If other low = 67 kg/hathreshers have more trash, the seed high = 2421 kg/ha should be cleanedbefore weighing. 1 = <537.8 kg/ha; 5.6% COMMENTS: yields increase with 2= <1008.6 kg/ha; 15.6% moisture and fertility. However, too high a 3 =<1479.4 kg/ha; 51.5% moisture can lead to killing of plants. Too 4 =<1950.2 kg/ha; 25.8% high fertility can lead to extra vegetative 5= >1950.1 kg/ha; 1.4% growth that may not lead to higher yields. avg. =1114.6 kg/ha, The optimum population depends on the std = 331.2 PLANTPHENOTYPE, Character No. 4 (BRANCHING STYLE, Character No. 1; NUMBER OFCAPSULES PER LEAF AXIL, Character No. 2; and MATURITY CLASS, CharacterNo. 3) and row width. (12) RESISTANCE TO S70 No data collected In a yearwhen there is a drought, this DROUGHT In general, pygmies rating can beused to differentiate the The relative amount of appear to exhibit moreeffects of the different lines. This is a resistance to drought droughtresistance than highly subjective rating requiring a rater normal lines,but S70 that is familiar with the performance of the specifically hasnot yet line under normal conditions. The rating is been rated andcompared based on how the drought changes the to other patentedvarieties. line from normal. Thus, a short line that Average of aminimum of does not change significantly in a drought three plots of asubjective may have a higher rating than a tall line rating based on thewhich is affected by the drought even following values: though thetaller line is taller in the drought 0 to 8 scale than the short line. 7= Little effect from drought 4 = Medium effect from drought 1 =Considerable effect from drought Intermediate values are used. Whenthere are limited ratings across varieties within one nursery inreplicated plots, varieties can be compared with the general terms: GoodAverage Poor Distribution within Sesaco based on stable lines in hecrossing program in 2000 (Total number of samples tested = 632) low = 0;high = 8 1 = <1.6; 0.8% 2 = <3.2; 28.0% 3 = <4.8; 36.1% 4 = <6.4; 34.5%5 = >6.3; 0.6% avg. = 4.1, std = 1.2 (13) LEAF LENGTH S70 = 14.3 cm for5^(th) Select one leaf per node to measure The length of the leaf nodepair; 15.6 cm for from the 5^(th), 10^(th), and 15^(th) node pairs fromblade from the base of 10^(th) node pair; and 13.6 the base of theplant. All the leaves for one the petiole to the apex cm for 15^(th)node pair line should be collected at the same time. of the leaf fromthe 5^(th), (Uvalde nursery, 2008) Some lines retain the cotyledons, andthe 10^(th), and 15^(th) node Value based on an the cotyledon node doesnot count as a node pairs average of a minimum of pair. In some linesthe lowest leaves three plants (unit of abscise leaving a scar on thestem. measure: cm) Abscised node pairs should be counted. InDistribution within Sesaco lines with alternate leaves, one node is for5^(th) leaf based on stable counted for each pair of leaves. In somelines in the crossing lines in parts of the plant there are threeprogram in 2002 (Total leaves per node which should be counted number oflines tested = as one node pair. 196 with 711 samples) The leavescontinue growing in the first low = 13.8 cm; high = 42.5 few days afterthey have separated from cm the growing tip. The choosing of leaves 1 =<19.5 cm; 34.7% should be done a minimum of 5 days after 2 = <25.3 cm;48.0% the 15^(th) node has appeared. Timing is 3 = <31.0 cm; 14.3%important, because the plants will begin to 4 = <36.8 cm; 1.5% shedtheir lower leaves towards the end of 5 = >36.7 cm; 1.5% their cycle.avg. = 21.5 cm, std = 4.4 There are lines that have less than 15Distribution within Sesaco node pairs. In this case, the highest nodefor 10^(th) leaf based on should be taken and the node number stablelines in the crossing annotated to the measurements. program in 2002(Total There can be as much as 6 mm number of lines tested = differencebetween a green leaf and a dry 196 with 711 samples) leaf. Themeasurements can be done on a low = 9.3 cm; high = 32.9 green or dryleaf as long as any cm comparison data with other lines is based 1 =<14.0 cm; 22.4% on the same method. 2 = <18.7 cm; 41.8% Generally, thelowest leaves increase in 3 = <23.5 cm; 20.9% size until the 4^(th) to6^(th) node and then they 4 = <28.2 cm; 10.2% decrease in size. Thisapplies to LEAF 5 = >28.1 cm; 4.6% LENGTH (Character No. 13) , LEAF avg.=17.9 cm, std = 4.8 BLADE WIDTH (Character No. 15), and Distributionwithin Sesaco PETIOLE LENGTH (Character No. 16). In for 15^(th) leafbased on few cases, LEAF BLADE LENGTH stable lines in the crossingCharacter No. 14) can increase up the 10^(th) program in 2002 (Totalnode, but will decrease by the 15^(th) node. number of lines tested =Generally, the width will decrease at a 196 with 711 samples) greaterrate than the length. low = 4.4 cm; high = 26.2 COMMENTS: the length isdependent cm on the amount of moisture and fertility. 1 = <8.8 cm; 5.1%Higher moisture and fertility increase the 2 = <13.1 cm; 42.9% length.Leaf size also appears to be 3 = <17.5 cm; 29.8% affected by lightintensity. In Korea, the 4 = <21.8 cm; 15.8% Korean lines have muchlarger leaves than 5 = >21.7 cm; 6.6% in Oklahoma. In Korea, there ismore cloud avg. = 14.3 cm, std = 4.2 cover and a general haze than inOklahoma. (14) LEAF BLADE S70 = 10.2 cm for 5^(th) See LEAF LENGTH(Character No. 13) LENGTH node pair; 13.2 cm for on how to collectleaves. In some leaves The length of the leaf 10^(th) node pair; and11.5 the blade on one side of the petiole starts blade from the base ofcm for 15^(th) node pair before the other side. This measure should theleaf blade to the (Uvalde nursery, 2008) start from the lowest bladeside. There are apex of the leaf from Value based on an the leaves thathave enations where a blade the 5^(th), 10^(th), and 15^(th) average ofa minimum of starts and then stops. The enations are not node pairsthree plants (unit of considered part of the leaf blade because measure:cm) they are very irregular from plant to plant Distribution withinSesaco and within a plant. for 5^(th) leaf based on stable COMMENTS: seeLEAF LENGTH lines in the crossing (Character No. 13) for effects ofprogram in 2002 (Total environment number of lines tested = 196 with 711samples) low = 9.0 cm; high = 25.5 cm 1 = <12.3 cm; 14.3% 2 = <15.6 cm;60.2% 3 = <18.9 cm; 20.9% 4 = <22.2 cm; 3.1% 5 = >22.1 cm; 1.5% avg. =14.4 cm, std = 2.4 Distribution within Sesaco for 10^(th) leaf based onstable lines in the crossing program in 2002 (Total number of linestested = 196 with 711 samples) low = 8.3 cm; high = 23.4 cm 1 = <11.3cm; 18.9% 2 = <14.3 cm; 42.9% 3 = <17.4 cm; 25.0% 4 = <20.4 cm; 9.2% 5= >20.3 cm; 4.1% avg. = 13.9 cm, std = 3.0 Distribution within Sesacofor 15^(th) leaf based on stable lines in the crossing program in 2002(Total number of lines tested = 196 with 711 samples) low = 4.2 cm; high= 20.7 cm 1 = <7.5 cm; 2.0% 2 = <10.8 cm; 36.7% 3 = <14.1 cm; 37.8% 4 =<17.4 cm; 16.3% 5 = >17.3 cm; 7.1% avg. = 12.0 cm, std = 3.0 (15) LEAFBLADE S70 = 6.0 cm for 5^(th) node See LEAF LENGTH (Character No. 13)WIDTH pair; 3.3 cm for 10^(th) node on how to collect leaves. There aremany The width of the leaf pair; and 2.2 cm for 15^(th) leaves that arenot symmetrical with blade measured across node pair in 2008 lobbing onone side and not the other. The the leaf blade at the (Uvalde nursery,2008) width should still be measured across the widest point at the5^(th), Value based on an the widest point on a line perpendicular tothe 10^(th), and 15^(th) node average of a minimum of main vein of theleaf. pairs three plants (unit of On some lines the width exceeds themeasure: cm) length, particularly on lobed leaves. Distribution withinSesaco COMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTH for 5^(th) leaf based on stable(Character No. 13) for effects of lines in the crossing environmentprogram in 2002 (Total The widest leaves are lobed. Normally, number oflines tested = the leaves have turned from lobed to 196 with 711samples) lanceolate by the 10^(th) leaf with the low = 3.4 cm; high =31.0 exception of the tropical lines. cm 1 = <8.9 cm; 53.1% 2 = <14.4cm; 33.7% 3 = <20.0 cm; 9.7% 4 = <25.5 cm; 2.6% 5 = >25.4 cm; 1.0% avg.= 9.6 cm, std = 4.3 Distribution within Sesaco for 10^(th) leaf based onstable lines in the crossing program in 2002 (Total number of linestested = 196 with 711 samples) low = 1.3 cm; high = 17.6 cm 1 = <4.6 cm;69.4% 2 = <7.8 cm; 25.0% 3 = <11.1 cm; 4.6% 4 = <14.3 cm; 0% 5 = >14.2cm; 1.0% avg. = 4.3 cm, std = 2.2 Distribution within Sesaco for 15^(th)leaf based on stable lines in the crossing program in 2002 (Total numberof lines tested = 196 with 711 samples) low = 0.7 cm; high = 6.0 cm 1 =<1.8 cm; 29.1% 2 = <2.8 cm; 48.0% 3 = <3.9 cm; 15.3% 4 = <4.9 cm; 4.6% 5= >4.8 cm; 3.1% avg. = 2.3 cm, std = 0.9 (16) PETIOLE LENGTH S70 = 4.1cm for 5^(th) node See LEAF LENGTH (Character No. 13) The length of thepair; 3.3 cm for 10^(th) node on how to collect leaves. In some leaves,petiole from the base of pair; and 2.2 cm for 15^(th) the blade on oneside of the petiole starts the petiole to the start node pair before theother side. This measure should of the leaf blade at the (Uvaldenursery, 2008) end where the earliest blade starts. There 5^(th),10^(th), and 15^(th) node Value based on an the are leaves that haveenations where a pairs. average of a minimum of blade starts and thenstops. The enations three plants (unit of are not considered part of theleaf blade measure: cm) because they are very irregular from plantDistribution within Sesaco to plant and within a plant and should be for5^(th) leaf based on stable measured as part of the petiole. lines inthe crossing COMMENTS: see LEAF LENGTH program in 2002 (Total (CharacterNo. 13) for effects of number of lines tested = environment 196 with 711samples) low = 3.0 cm; high = 17.0 cm 1 = <5.8 cm; 35.2% 2 = <8.6 cm;39.8% 3 = <11.4 cm; 19.4% 4 = <14.2 cm; 4.1% 5 = >14.1 cm; 1.5% avg. =7.0 cm, std = 2.5 Distribution within Sesaco for 10^(th) leaf based onstable lines in the crossing program in 2002 (Total number of linestested = 196 with 711 samples) low = 1.0 cm; high = 14.2 cm 1 = <3.6 cm;53.6% 2 = <6.3 cm; 31.6% 3 = <8.9 cm; 11.7% 4 = <11.6 cm; 2.0% 5 = >11.5cm; 1.0% avg. = 4.0 cm, std = 2.1 Distribution within Sesaco for 15^(th)leaf based on stable lines in the crossing program in 2002 (Total numberof lines tested = 196 with 711 samples) low = 0.2 cm; high = 7.4 cm 1 =<1.6 cm; 38.8% 2 = <3.1 cm; 41.8% 3 = <4.5 cm; 13.3% 4 = <6.0 cm; 3.1% 5= >5.9 cm; 3.1% avg. = 2.3 cm, std = 1.3 (17) NUMBER OF S70 = 2 Therating can be taken from about 60 CARPELS PER (All crops,all nurseries)days after planting to all the way to the end CAPSULE Subjective ratingbased on of the crop. The predominant the following values: There aremany plants with mixed number of carpels per 2 = bicarpellate number ofcarpels as follows: capsule in the middle 3 = tricarpellate 1. Somebicarpellate plants will have half of the capsule zone 4 =quadricarpellate one or more nodes near the center of the (unit ofmeasure: actual capsule zone that have tri- and/or numberquadricarpellate capsules and vice versa. Distribution within Sesaco 2.Most tri- and quadri-carpellate plants based on the introductions willbegin and end with bicarpellate nodes. received in 1982-2001 3. Someplants have only one carpel (Total number of samples that develops.These capsules are tested = 2702) generally bent, but on examination the2nd 2 = 97.6% carpel can be seen. 3 = 0.0004% 4. On all types, flowersmay coalesce 4 = 2.3% and double or triple the number of Sesaco has notdeveloped carpels. lines with more than 2 5. On the seamless gene plants(gs/gs) carpels. the false membranes do not form locules. These arestill considered bicarpellate. (18) CAPSULE S70 = 2.11 cm After theplants are physiologically LENGTH FROM 10cap (All experimental mature,take 2 capsules from five plants TEST nurseries, 1997-2008) from themiddle of the capsule zone. On The length of the Value based on thethree capsule per leaf axil lines, one capsule from the average of aminimum of central capsule and one axillary capsule bottom of the seedthree samples of the should be taken from the same leaf axil. chamber tothe top of length taken on the The measurement is taken on the medianthe seed chamber from median capsule in a 10 capsule of single capsulelines and on the the outside of the capsule sample (unit of mediancentral capsule on three capsule capsule. The tip of the measure: cm)lines. The measurement is taken on dry capsule is not includedDistribution within Sesaco capsules because the length can shorten inthe measurement. based on 10cap test in all as much as one mm ondrydown. nurseries in 1997-2002 The 10 capsules can be sampled from(Total number of lines physiological maturity through complete tested =1,613 with 8,285 drydown without an effect on this samples) character.low = 1.3 cm; high = 4.5 Generally, the capsules in the middle of cm thecapsule zone are the longest on the 1 = <1.94 cm; 2.7% plant. 2 = <2.58cm; 67.9% COMMENTS: the length of the capsule 3 = <3.22 cm; 27.2% isdependent on the amount of moisture, 4 = <3.86 cm; 1.9% fertility, andpopulation. Higher moisture 5 = >3.85 cm; 0.3% and fertility increasethe length. Higher avg. = 2.44 cm, std = 0.33 population decreases thelength even with adequate moisture/fertility. (19) SEED WEIGHT S70 =0.221 g See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAP PER CAPSULE FROM (All experimentalTEST (Character No. 18) for collection of 10cap TEST nurseries,1997-2008) capsules. The capsules should be dried, The weight of theseed Value based on the the seed threshed out, and the seed in a capsulefrom the average of a minimum of weighed. center of the capsule threesamples of the The 10 capsules can be sampled from zone weight of 10capsules (unit physiological maturity through complete of weight: grams)drydown without an effect on this Distribution within Sesaco character.After drydown, only capsules based on 10cap test in all with all theirseed are taken. Thus, this test nurseries in 1997-2002 cannot be done onshattering lines after (Total number of lines drydown. tested = 1,613with 8,285 Generally, the capsules in the middle of samples) the capsulezone have the highest seed low = 0.053 g; high = weight per capsule onthe plant. 0.476 g COMMENTS: see CAPSULE LENGTH 1 = <0.138 g; 1.3% FROM10CAP TEST (Character No. 18) 2 = <0.222 g; 47.6% for the effects ofenvironmental factors. 3 = <0.307 g; 50.6% 4 = <0.391 g; 1.1% 5 = >0.390g; 0.1% avg. = 0.221 g, std = 0.039 (20) CAPSULE S70 = 0.133 g SeeCAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAP WEIGHT PER (All experimental TEST (CharacterNo. 18) for collection of CAPSULE FROM nurseries,1997-2008) capsules.The capsules should be dried, 10cap TEST Value based on the the seedthreshed out, and the capsules The weight of the average of a minimum ofweighed. At times the peduncle can still capsule from the center threesamples of the be attached to the capsules. The of the capsule zoneweight of 10 capsules (unit peduncles should be removed and not afterthe seed has been of measure: grams) weighed. removed Distributionwithin Sesaco The 10 capsules can be sampled from based on 10cap test inall physiological maturity through complete nurseries in 1997-2002drydown without an effect on this (Total number of lines character.tested = 1,613 with 8,285 Generally, the capsules in the middle ofsamples) the capsule zone have the highest capsule low = 0.059 g; high—weight per capsule on the plant. 0.395 g COMMENTS: see CAPSULE LENGTH 1= <0.126 g; 22.6% FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 18) 2 = <0.193 g; 69.1%for the effects of environmental factors. 3 = <0.261 g; 8.2% 4 = <0.328g; 0.9% 5 = >0.327 g; 0.6% avg. = 0.152 g, std = 0.036 (21) CAPSULE S70= 0.063 g The weight is derived by dividing the WEIGHT PER CM OF (Allexperimental CAPSULE WEIGHT PER CAPSULE CAPSULE nurseries, 1997-2008)FROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 20) The weight of a capsule Value basedon the by the CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAP per cm of capsule from averageof a minimum of TEST (Character No. 18). the center of the three samplesof the The 10 capsules can be sampled from capsule zone weight per cm of10 physiological maturity through complete capsules (unit of measure:drydown without an effect on this grams) character. Distribution withinSesaco COMMENTS: this character is used based on 10cap test in allinstead of capsule width. Capsule width is nurseries in 1997-2002difficult to measure because there are so (Total number of lines manyvariables in a capsule. In a tested = 1,613 with 8,285 bicarpellatecapsule, the width differs when samples) measuring across one carpel orboth low = 0.027 g; high = carpels. Capsules can also vary through 0.123g the length of the capsule by being 1 = <0.046 g; 8.2% substantiallynarrower at the bottom, 2 = <0.065 g; 55.5% middle or top of thecapsule. In 1997, four 3 = <0.085 g; 36.5% widths were measured on eachcapsule 4 = <0.104 g; 4.4% and then averaged. This average had a 5= >0.103 g; 0.5% very high correlation to the capsule weight avg. =0.063 g, std = 0.012 per cm of capsule. See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPTEST (Character No. 18) for effects of environmental factors (22) VISUALSEED S70 = I This rating is used for plants that are RETENTION (Allcrops, all nurseries) being selected for advanced testing Amount of seedin most Subjective rating based on whether individually or in a bulkwith all the of the capsules in the the following values: plants havingthe same level of seed middle half of the X = <50% seed retentionretention. capsule zone when the (unsuitable for direct Most “X” plantscan be identified from plant(s) are dry enough harvest) the firstcapsule that dries since the seed for direct harvest with a C = 50-74%seed will begin falling out immediately. combine retention (unsuitablefor A “C” (close to V) plant will have some direct harvest, but maycapsules with seed and some without. segregate V or above in A “V”(visual shatter resistance) plant future generations) can be identifiedwhen the first 50% of the V = >74% seed retention capsules have dried,but a “V+” rating (sufficient seed retention should not be used untilthe complete plant for 10cap testing) is dry and most of the capsulesare W = >74% seed retention showing seed retention. on weathering infield after Some “V” plants can be upgraded to rains and/or winds “W”after the dry capsules have been I = in using the “drum subjected toweather (rain and/or wind). test” the seed in the “V” and “W” becomenon-dehiscent only capsules do not rattle and after 10cap testing withabout an 80% >85% of the capsules on passing rate. 10cap testing is doneon “I” the plant(s) harvested selections have had about a 90% passinghave visible seed in the rate. tips of the capsules four or The “drumtest” consists of placing the more weeks after the ideal fingers fromone hand about ½ inch from harvest time. The “I” the center of the mainstem and then rating is used for all of the striking the stemalternately with one finger capsules on the plant. and then the otherfinger in rapid ‘+’ and ‘−’ modifiers can succession. The human ear canperceive be used for the X, C, V, W, degree of rattling over a range.IND is and I. defined as having no rattle. Degree of rattle in this testcorrelates with loss of increasing amounts of seed as capsules areexposed to weather conditions. COMMENTS: the ratings above should bemade under normal conditions (600 mm of annual rainfall and 30 kg/ha ofnitrogen) through high moisture/fertility conditions. In drought or verylow fertility conditions, it has been observed that there is less seedretention. In addition, high populations may lead to low moisture orfertility causing less seed retention. If unusual environmentalconditions are present, the effects should be taken into considerationprior to rating. (23) SHAKER S70 = 77.4 % See CAPSULE LENGTH FROM 10CAPSHATTER (All experimental TEST (Character No. 18) for collection ofRESISTANCE FROM nurseries, 1997-2008) capsules. The capsules should bedried. 10cap TEST Value based on the The capsules and any seed that hasfallen The amount of seed average of a minimum of out should then beplaced in flasks on a retention after the three samples of thereciprocal shaker with a 3.8 cm stroke with capsules are dry andpercentage of seed 250 strokes/min for 10 minutes (see U.S. put througha shaker retained in 10 capsules Pat. No. 6,100,452). The seed that (10capsule sample) (unit of measure: Actual comes out of the capsulesshould be Number expressed as weighed as ‘out seed.’ The retained seedpercentage) should be threshed out of the capsules Distribution withinSesaco and weighed to compute the 'total seed . based on 10cap test inall The shaker shatter resistance is computed nurseries in 1997-2002 asa percentage as follows: (total seed— (Total number of lines outseed)/total seed. tested = 1,613 with 8,285 The 10 capsules can besampled from samples) physiological maturity through complete low = 0;high = 100 drydown without an effect on this character 1 = <20; 12.9%for shatter resistant types. When taking 2 = <40; 6.9% capsules afterdrydown, only capsules with 3 = <60; 23.4% all their seed are taken.Thus, this test 4 = <80; 47.7% cannot be done on shattering lines after5 = >79.9; 9.2% drydown. avg. = 55.9%, std = 23.9 COMMENTS: The ratingsabove should be made under normal conditions through highmoisture/fertility conditions. In drought or very low fertilityconditions, it has been observed that there is less seed retention. Inadditions, high populations may lead to low moisture or fertilitycausing there is less seed retention. If unusual environmentalconditions are present, the effects should be taken into considerationprior to rating. Lines with shaker shatter resistance >64.9% are knownas non-dehiscent lines (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,452). (24) CAPSULE S70 =SR The rating is based on visual SHATTERING TYPE (All crops, allnurseries) observations as to seed retention as the Character RatingMethodology Amount of seed Subjective rating based on plants remainstanding in the field without retention in a line or the followingvalues: shocking. plant SUS = Super-shattering SUS, SHA, SSH, SR, ID,and GS are (<25%) terms used by international sesame SHA = Shattering(<50%) breeders and can be correlated to the SSH = Semi-shattering (50Sesaco definitions used by Sesaco by to 75%; a rating of C) VISUAL SEEDRETENTION (Character SR = Shatter resistant No. 22). (>75%; a rating ofV, W, or GS plants can be identified while the I) plant is putting oncapsules or at drydown ID = Indehiscent because the carpels in thecapsules do not (presence of id/id with form false membranes. There areplants capsule closed) that will have capsules with false IDO =Indehiscent membranes on the lower and upper nodes (presence of id/idwith but most of the capsules show no false capsule open at tip)membranes. GS = Seamless ID plants can be identified during the(presence of gs/gs with growing season in that they have enationscapsule closed) on the bottoms of the leaves. At dry down GSO = Seamlessthey are more difficult to distinguish from (presence of gs/gs withother lines that have closed capsules capsule open at tip) (other thanGS). There is less of a suture than other capsule types. COMMENTS: Mostenvironmental factors do not have much of an effect on capsuleshattering type other than to make it more difficult to distinguish inthe overlap zone. Generally, higher moisture, higher fertility, andlower populations will decrease the shattering a small amount— less than10%. The wind can have a large effect in decreasing the amount of seedretention. Rain, dew and fog can also reduce seed retention. (25)NON-DEHISCENT S70 = ND Lines are designated as ND only after they TEST(All crops, all nurseries) have undergone a minimum of 3 shaker A linethat has passed Rating shatter resistance tests. In order to beCharacter Subjective rating based on Methodology the non-dehiscent testthe following values: considered an ND variety, the line must of havingshaker shatter ND = Non-dehiscent line pass the ND threshold in multiplenurseries resistance >64.9% is XX = Line that does not for multipleyears. considered an ND line pass the non-dehiscent in accordance withU.S. test Pat. No. 6,100,452. ND distribution within Sesaco based on10cap test in all nurseries in 1997-2007 (Total number of samples tested= 10,905) ND = 53.6% XX = 46.4% (26) IMPROVED NON- S70 = 7.5 This ratingis used for a plot or field that DEHISCENT VISUAL (Uvalde nursery, 2008)is being evaluated. RATING (IND) S70 = 7.4 The data is taken four ormore weeks Amount of seed in most (Lorenzo nursery, 2008) after theideal harvest time. See DAYS of the capsules in the Value based on theTO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No. plants in a plot four or average on aminimum of 31). Estimate the percentage of capsules more weeks after thethree plots of a subjective that have visible seed at the top. In theideal harvest time. rating based on the beginning in order to develop aneye for percentage of capsules the rating, the evaluator should observeall with visible seed retention of the capsules and rate each of them;get 8 < 100% a counts of those with no visible seeds and 7 < 85% a countof total capsules; and compute a 6 < 70% percentage. Once the evaluatoris skilled, 5 > 55% there is no need to count the capsules. Z < 55%There is a very high correlation between ‘*’, ‘+’ and ‘−’ modifiers thisrating upon visual evaluation and the can be used. For amount ofrattling generated by the “drum averages, 0.5 is added for test” definedabove in VISUAL SHATTER ‘*’, 0.33 is added for a ‘+’ RESISTANCE(Character No. 22). and 0.33 is subtracted for Although retention canvary from plant a ‘−’, e.g., “7+” = 7.33. to plant and even within aplant, the overall IND distribution as an rating is correlatable withIND. average of nurseries in In crossing between lines, in early Uvaldeand Lorenzo from generations there is a segregation of IND 2006-2008.plants and non-IND plants. In this case (Total number of lines the plotis given a rating of the majority of tested = 288 with 801 plants whilethe plants selected can have a samples in 2006) higher rating which isreflected in VISUAL low = 2.97; high = 7.33 SEED RETENTION. The ratingsthat are 1 = <6.0; 2.1% cited in this character are for plots, but a 2 =<6.5; 20.8% ratings of 7 or 8 are only given if over 90% 3 = <7.0; 13.2%of the plants have the higher rating. 4 = <7.5; 63.9% 5 = >7.5; 0% avg.= 6.77, std = 0.54 Note: The percentage of lines between 7.0 and 7.6 isvery high because Sesaco only uses these ratings to evaluate lines thatare released varieties, IND lines, or lines segregating IND. (27)IMPROVED NON- S70 = IND Varieties were designated as IND afterDEHISCENCE TEST (All crops, all nurseries they demonstrated the definedAn ND line that passes Subjective rating based on characteristics withstatistically significant the drum test and has a the following values:data. visual IND rating >6.99 IND = Improved Non- is considered IND. Adehiscent line method for traditional ZZ = Line that does not breedingof an IND line pass the impoved non- is described in dehiscent testconcurrently filed U.S. Distribution within Sesaco patent applicationbased on visual IND (Total Ser. No. 12/041,257. number of lines tested =ND and IND lines 1,934 in all nurseries from should not have id or gs2005 to 2007) alleles. IND = 9.5% ZZ = 90.5% (28) DAYS TO S70 = 38 daysThe vegetative phase in sesame is from Character Rating MethodologyFLOWERING (Uvalde nursery, 2008) the time of planting to the start ofNumber of days from Value based on the flowering. planting until 50% ofthe average of a minimum of This data is taken as a date and laterplants are flowering three plots of the number converted to number ofdays. Flowering is of days (unit of measure: defined as flowers that areopen—not days) buds. Distribution within Sesaco COMMENTS: flowering canbe based on lines in Uvalde accelerated by drought and it can be nurseryin 2000-2001 delayed by higher moisture and/or fertility. (Total numberof samples Higher heat units will decrease the days to tested = 1,831)flowering. low = 33 days; high = 89 Some lines are photosensitive andwill days only begin flowering at a certain number of 1 = <44.2 days;87.9% hours of daylight. 2 = <55.4 days; 7.8% Start of flowering doesnot always 3 = <66.6 days; 2.4% equate to start of capsule formation.Many 4 = <77.8 days; 1.7% lines will flower and not set capsules from 5= >77.7 days; 0.2% the first flowers. avg. = 40.9 days, std = 6.3 (29)DAYS TO S70 = 74 days The reproductive phase of sesame is FLOWER (Uvaldenursery, 2008) from the start to the end of flowering. TERMINATION Valuebased on the This data is taken as a date and later Number of days fromaverage of a minimum of converted to number of days. Flowering isplanting until 90% of the three plots of the number defined as flowersthat are open—not plants have stopped of days (unit of measure: buds. Atthe end of the flowering period, flowering days) the rate that a plantputs on open flowers Distribution within Sesaco is reduced. Thus, therecan be more than based on lines in Uvalde 10% of plants with buds andstill have nursery in 2000-2001 reached this measure since there willnot (Total number of samples be more than 10% with open flowers ontested = 2,668) any one day. low = 61 days; high = 114 The measure isbased on the number of days plants and not the number of flowering 1 =<71.6 days; 21.1% heads. The branches will stop flowering 2 = <82.2days; 61.5% before the main stem, and thus the plot will 3 = <92.8 days;15.9% appear like there are more plants not 4 = <103.4 days; 0.8%flowering. 5 = >103.3 days; 0.8% COMMENTS: flower termination can avg. =77.1 days, std = 6.9 be accelerated by lower moisture and/or fertility,and it can be delayed by higher moisture and/or fertility. Higher heatunits will decrease the DAYS TO FLOWER TERMINATION. It is known thatthere are lines that stop flowering sooner than expected in northernlatitudes, but it is not known if this is due to shorter photoperiod orcool temperatures. (30) DAYS TO S70 = 98 days The ripening phase ofsesame is from PHYSIOLOGICAL (Uvalde nursery, 2008) the end of floweringuntil physiological MATURITY Value based on the maturity. Number of daysfrom average of a minimum of This data is taken as a date and laterplanting until 50% of the three plots of the number converted to numberof days. Physiological plants reach of days (unit of measure: maturity(PM) is defined as the point at physiological maturity days) which ¾ ofthe capsules have seed with Distribution within Sesaco final color. Inmost lines, the seed will also based on lines in Uvalde have a seed lineand tip that is dark. nursery in 2000-2001 COMMENTS: The concept of(Total number of samples C tested = 2,374) physiological maturity insesame was low = 77 days; high = 140 developed by M. L. Kinman (personaldays communication) based on the concept of 1 = <89.6 days; 16.8%determining the optimum time to cut a 2 = 102.2 days; 58.0% plant andstill harvest 95-99% of the 3 = <114.8 days; 23.6% potential yield. TheKinman ratings were 4 = <127.4 days; 1.4% used for sesame in the1950-60s when the 5 = >127.3 days; 0.2% plants were cut while stillgreen and avg. = 97.1 days, std = 7.1 manually shocked to dry. When theseed has final color, the seed can germinate under the properconditions. If the plant is cut at physiological maturity, most of theseed above the ¾ mark will go to final color and are mature enough togerminate, but will not have as much seed weight. Since in even a fullymature plant, there is less seed weight made at the top of the plant,this loss of seed weight does not seriously affect the potential seedweight of the plant. Although present harvest methods let the plantsmature and go to complete drydown, PM is important because after thatpoint, the crop is less susceptible to yield loss due to frost ordisease. The PM is also important if the crop is to be swathed orharvest aids are to be applied. Physiological maturity can beaccelerated by lower moisture and/or fertility, and it can be delayed byhigher moisture and/or fertility. Higher heat units will decrease thedays to physiological maturity. Cool weather can delay physiologicalmaturity. (31) DAYS TO DIRECT S70 = 141 days The drying phase of sesameis from HARVEST (Uvalde nursery, 2008) physiological maturity untildirect harvest. Number of days from Value based on the This data istaken as a date and later planting until there is average of a minimumof converted to number of days. Direct enough drydown for three plots ofthe number harvest is defined as the date at which the direct harvest ofdays (unit of measure: plants are dry enough for combining seed days) at6% or less moisture. Over 99% of the Distribution within Sesaco sesamein the world is cut by hand before based on lines in all the plantcompletely dries down, and the nurseries from 2004 plants are manuallyshocked to dry down. tthrough 2006 The plants should be dry below where(Total number of samples the cutter bar of the combine will hit thetested = 1,998) plants. In many lines, 15-20 cm from the low = 103 days;high = 161 ground can be green without an effect on days the moisture ofthe seed. In taking the 1 = <114.6 days; 3.3% data on a plot, the plantsat the aisle have 2 = <126.2 days; 13.3% more moisture and fertilityavailable and 3 = will dry down later. The same is true for 4 = plantswithin the plot that have a gap of 5 = half a meter between plants.These plants avg. = 136.7 days, std = should be disregarded in takingthe data. 10.3 In addition, there are few farmer fields that dry downuniformly because of varying soils and moisture. There is a certainamount of green that can be combined and still attain the propermoisture. The amount of green allowable is also dependent on thehumidity at the day of combining—the lower the humidity the higher theamount of allowable green. COMMENTS: This date is the most variablenumber of days that define the phenology of sesame because weather is soimportant. In dry years with little rainfall, the plants will run out ofmoisture sooner and will dry down faster than in years with morerainfall. Fields that are irrigated by pivots will generally dry downfaster than fields with flood or furrow irrigation because pivots do notprovide deep moisture. Fields with less fertility will drydown fasterthan fields with high fertility. Fields with high populations will drydown faster than fields with low populations. In low moisture situationslines with a strong taproot will dry down later than lines with mostlyshallow fibrous roots. (32) LODGING S70 = 7.3 The data is taken afterphysiological RESISTANCE (Uvalde nursery 2007); maturity (see DAYS TOPHYSIOLOGICAL The amount of lodging S70 = 8.0 MATURITY—Character No. 30)and (Lorenzo nursery 2007) before direct harvest (see DAYS TO Average ofa minimum of DIRECT HARVEST—Character No. 31). three plots of asubjective Lodging that occurs after direct harvest in rating based onthe nurseries would not be a factor in following values: commercialsesame. 0 to 8 rating There are three types of lodging: where 8 = nolodging the plants break at the stem, where the 7 = Less than 5% ofplants plants bend over but do not break, and lodged where the plantsuproot and bend over. 4 = 50 % of plants lodged When a plant breaksover, it will rarely 1 = All plants lodged produce any new seed, and theexisting Intermediate values are seed may or may not mature. If there isa used. total break, there is no hope, but if there is Distributionwithin Sesaco still some active stem translocation based on lines inUvalde through the break, there can be some yield and Lorenzo nurseriesin recovery. The main causes for uprooting 2007 of plants are shallowroot systems and (Total number of samples fields that have just beenirrigated, creating tested = 1061) a soft layer of soil. When a plantbends low = 1.0; high = 8.0 over early in development, some lines 1 =<2.4; 3.1 0/0 adapt better than others in terms of having 2 = <3.8; 6.9%the main stems turn up and continue 3 = <5.2; 22.6% flowering. The tipsof the branches are 4 = <6.6; 18.9% usually matted under the canopy andwill 5 = >8.0; 48.4% rarely turn up, but new branches can avg. = 6.1,std = 1.7 develop. As the plants go to drydown and the weight of themoisture is lost, many of the bent plants will straighten up making thecrop easier to combine. COMMENTS: The major cause of lodging is thewind. In areas where there are constant winds such as in Oklahoma andnorthern Texas, the plants adjust by adding more lignins to the stems,and it takes a stronger wind to cause lodging than in areas such asUvalde where there normally only breezes unless there is a strong frontor thunderstorm that passes through. In areas with more root rots, thestems are weak and it takes little wind to lodge the plants. (33) SEEDCOLOR S70 = BF This data is taken in the laboratory with The color ofthe seed (All crops, all nurseries) the same lighting for all samples.The seed coat Subjective rating based on from the whole plant is used.the following values: Seed coat color is taken on mature WH = Whiteseeds. If there is any abnormal BF = Buff termination, the colors arenot quite as TN = Tan even. The color of immature seed varies. LBR =Light brown Usually light seeded lines have tan to light GO = Gold brownimmature seed; tan, light brown, LGR = Light gray gold, brown lightgray, and gray lines have GR = Gray lighter immature seed; black linescan BR = Brown have tan, brown, or gray immature seed. RBR = Reddishbrown Usually, moisture, fertility, population BLK = Black and lightintensity do not have an effect on Distribution within Sesaco seed coatcolor. Light colored seeds in a based on seed harvested drought may havea yellowish tinge. Seeds in all nurseries in 1982- in some lines in thetan, light brown and 2001 (Total number of gold range can change fromyear to year samples tested = 161,809) among themselves. WH = 0.8% BF =74.8% TN = 9.0% LBR = 1.4% GO = 1.5% LGR = 0.6% GR = 1.4% BR = 6.5% RBR= 0.6% BLK = 3.5% (34) SEED WEIGHT— S70 = 0.326 g See CAPSULE LENGTHFROM 10CAP 100 SEEDS FROM (All experimental TEST (Character No. 18) forcollection of 10cap TEST nurseries, 1997-2008) capsules. Weight of 100seeds Value based on the Count out 100 seeds and weigh. The taken fromthe 10cap average of a minimum of seed must be dry. tests which aretaken three samples of the COMMENTS: the weight increases from themiddle of the weight of 100 seeds from with higher moisture/fertility.Generally, plant. the 10 capsules (unit of the weight of the seed fromthe whole plant weight: grams) is lighter than the seed weight takenfrom Distribution within Sesaco the 10cap test. based on stable lines inall nurseries in 1997-2002 (Total number of lines tested = 820 with2,899 samples) low = 0.200 g; high = 0.455 g 1 = <0..251 g; 10.1% 2 =<0.302 g; 48.4% 3 = <0.353 g; 34.0% 4 = <0.404 g; 7.2% 5 = >0.403 g;0.2% avg. = 0.298 g, std = 0.04 (35) COMPOSITE KILL S70 = 7.2 On theweek a plot reaches PM, a RESISTANCE (Uvalde nursery, 2007); rating isassigned. The ratings are then The amount of plants Average of a minimumof taken for 2 additional weeks. The three killed by root rots in thethree plots of a subjective ratings are averaged for a final killrating. Sesaco nurseries rating based on the For example, if a plot hasa final kill of 766, following values: Ratings the average for the plotwill be 6.33. When are based on the number a value of 1 or 2 isassigned, there are no of plants killed in a plot. additional ratings,and there is no Before physiological averaging. maturity (PM), the Thereare three root diseases that affect following ratings are used: sesamein Texas: Fusarium oxysporum, 1 = >90% kill before DAYS Macrophominaphaseoli, and Phytophtora TO FLOWERING parasitica. Between 1988 and thepresent, TERMINATION (Character spores of these three have been No. 29)accumulated in one small area (1 square 2 = >90% kill between km) northof Uvalde, and thus it is an DAYS TO FLOWERING excellent screening areafor the diseases. TERMINATION (Character Although each root rot attackssesame in a No. 29) and DAYS TO different way with different symptoms,no PHYSIOLOGICAL effort is made to differentiate which MATURITY(Character No. disease is the culprit in each plot. 30) Pathologicalscreenings in the past have After PM, the following found all 3pathogens present in dead ratings are used: plants. 3 = >90% killCOMMENTS: normally if decreasing, 4 = 50 to 89% kill the ratings willdecrease a maximum of 5 = 25 to 49% kill one value per week. There is anoverlap 6 = 10 to 24% kill between any two ratings, but this is 7 = lessthan 10% kill overcome to a certain extent by using 8 = no kill threeratings over 2 weeks. Distribution within Sesaco The amount of kill isusually increased based on lines in Uvalde with any type of stress tothe plants. nursery in 2000-2001 Drought can increase the amount of(Total number of samples Macrophomina; too much water can tested = 3045)increase the amount of Phytophtora; high low = 1.00; high = 8.00temperatures and humidity can increase 1 = <1.6; 1.7% the amount ofFusarium and Phytophtora. 2 = <3.2; 16.7% High population can increaseall three 3 = <4.8; 38.7% diseases. 4 = <6.4; 31.2% The ratings for anyone year can be 5 = >6.3; 11.6% used to compare lines grown in thatyear, avg. = 4.52, std = 1.49 but should not be used to compare linesgrown in different years. The amount of disease in any one year ishighly dependent on moisture, humidity, and temperatures. (36)RESISTANCE TO S70 = NT Ratings can be done in several ways: FUSARIUMWILT (F. Average of a minimum of 1. Take ratings after the disease is nooxysporum) three plots of a subjective longer increasing Amount ofresistance to rating based on the 2. Take ratings on consecutive weeksFusarium wilt following values: until disease is no longer increasingand 0 to 8 scale of the average ratings. % of infected plants 3. Takeperiodic ratings and average 8 = Zero disease ratings. 7 = <10% infectedCOMMENTS: Fusarium has been a 4 = 50% infected problem in South Texas,particularly on 1 = >90% infected fields that have been planted withsesame 0 = all infected before. Normally, only the COMPOSITEIntermediate values are KILL RESISTANCE (Character No. 35) used. ratingis taken. NT = not tested NEC = no economic damage—not enough disease todo ratings (37) RESISTANCE TO S70 = NT See Methodology for RESISTANCE TOPHYTOPHTORA STEM Subjective rating FUSARIUM WILT (Character No. 36) ROT(P. parasitica) See Values for Fusarium COMMENTS: Phytophtora has been aAmount of resistance to problem in Arizona and Texas, particularlyPhytophtora stem rot on fields that have been over-irrigated. Normally,only the COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE (Character No. 35) rating is taken.(38) RESISTANCE TO S70 = NT See Methodology for RESISTANCE TO CHARCOALROT Subjective rating FUSARIUM WILT (Character No. 36) (MacrophominaCOMMENTS: Macrophomina has been phaseoli) See Values for Fusarium aproblem in Arizona and Texas, Amount of resistance to particularly onfields that go into a drought. Charcoal rot Normally, only the COMPOSITEKILL RESISTANCE (Character No. 35) rating is taken. (39) RESISTANCE TOS70 = NT See Methodology for RESISTANCE TO BACTERIAL BLACK Average of aminimum of FUSARIUM WILT (Character No. 36) ROT (Pseudomonas three plotsof a subjective COMMENTS: this disease occurs sesame) rating based onthe occasionally when there is continual rainy Amount of resistance tofollowing values: weather with few clouds. In most years, bacterialblack rot 0 to 8 scale of the the disease abates once the weather % ofinfected plants changes. No economic damage has been 8 = Zero diseasenoticed. 7 = <10% infected 4 = 50% infected 1 = >90% infected 0 = allinfected Intermediate values are used. NT = not tested NEC = no economicdamage—not enough disease to do ratings Distribution within Sesaco basedon lines in Uvalde nursery in 2004 (Total number of samples tested =593) low = 4.00; high = 8.00 1 = <2.4; 0.0% 2 = <3.8; 0.0% 3 = <5.2;8.6% 4 = <6.6; 16.0% 5 = >6.5; 75.4% avg. = 7.13, std = 1.00 (40)RESISTANCE TO S70 = NEC Ratings can be done in several ways: SILVERLEAF(Uvalde nursery, 2007) 1. Take ratings after the insects are no WHITEFLY(Bemisia There were a few insects longer increasing. argentifolii) onS70, but not enough to 2. Take ratings on consecutive weeks Amount ofresistance to rate S70 or the other lines. until insects are no longerincreasing and the silverleaf whitefly Average of a minimum of averageratings. three plots of a subjective 3. Take periodic ratings andaverage rating based on the ratings. following values: COMMENTS: therehave been very 0 to 8 scale of the few years (1991-1995) where the % ofinfected plants incidence of silverleaf whitefly has affected 0 to 8scale nurseries or commercial crops. In most 8 = Zero insects years, afew whiteflies can be seen in the 7 = Few insects sesame with noeconomic damage. 4 = Many insects In the middle 1990s, the USDA began 1= Insects killing the introducing natural predators of the plantssilverleaf whitefly in the Uvalde area. It is Intermediate values arenot known if the predators reduced the used. effects of the whitefly orthere is a natural NT = not tested tolerance to whitefly in the currentNEC = no economic varieties. damage—not enough Higher temperaturesdecrease the insects to do ratings number of days between generations.There are indications that higher moisture and fertility increase theincidence of white flies, but there is no definitive data. The sweetpotato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) has been observed in nurseries since1978 without any economic damage. (41) RESISTANCE TO S70 = NT SeeMethodology for RESISTANCE TO GREEN PEACH (Uvalde nursery, 2004)SILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No. APHIDS (Myzus Subjective rating; see40) persicae) Values for Whitefly COMMENTS: there have been very Amountof resistance to Distribution within Sesaco few years (1990-1995) wherethe the green peach aphid based on lines in Uvalde incidence of greenpeach aphid has nursery in 2004 affected nurseries or commercial crops.In (Total number of samples most years, a few aphids can be seen intested = 412) the sesame with no economic damage. low = 1.00; high =8.00 There have been many years in West 1 = <2.4; 1.0% Texas when thecotton aphid has 2 = <3.8; 0.5% decimated the cotton and did not buildup 3 = <5.2; 10.7% on adjacent sesame fields. 4 = <6.6; 4.8% Highermoisture and fertility increase 5 = >6.5; 83.0% the susceptibility toaphids. avg. = 7.04, std = 1.35 (42) RESISTANCE TO S70 = NT SeeMethodology for RESISTANCE TO POD BORERS Subjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No. (Heliothis spp.) Values for Whitefly40) Amount of resistance to COMMENTS: there have been very pod borersfew years (1985) where the incidence of Heliothis has affected nurseriesor commercial crops. In most years, a few borers can be seen in thesesame with no economic damage. (43) RESISTANCE TO S70 = NT SeeMethodology for RESISTANCE TO ARMY WORMS Subjective rating; seeSILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (Character No. (Spodoptera spp.) Values for Whitefly40) Amount of resistance to COMMENTS: there have been very army wormsfew years (1984-1987) where the incidence of Spodoptera has affectedcommercial crops in Arizona. In Texas, army worms have decimated cottonand alfalfa fields next to sesame without any damage to the sesame. Itis not known if the Arizona army worm is different from the Texas armyworm. (44) RESISTANCE TO S70 = NEC See Methodology for RESISTANCE TOCABBAGE LOOPERS ( Lorenzo nursery 2007) SILVERLEAF WHITEFLY (CharacterNo. (Pieris rapae) Subjective rating; see 40) Amount of resistance tovalues for Whitefly COMMENTS: there have been very cabbage loopers fewyears (1992-1993) where the incidence of cabbage loopers has affectednurseries. In commercial sesame, cabbage loopers have been observed withno economic damage. ^(a)Uvalde nursery planted north of Uvalde, Texas(latitude 29°22′ north, longitude 99°47′ west, 226 m elev) in middle tolate May to early June from 1988 to the present; mean rainfall is 608 mmannually with a mean of 253 mm during the growing season; temperaturesrange from an average low of 3° C. and an average high of 17° C. inJanuary to an average low of 22° C. and an average high of 37° C. inJuly. The nursery was planted on 96 cm beds from 1988 to 1997 and on 76cm beds from 1998 to the present. The nursery was pre-irrigated and hashad 2-3 post-plant irrigations depending on rainfall. The fertility hasvaried from 30-60 units of nitrogen. ^(b)Lorenzo nursery plantedsoutheast of Lubbock, Texas (latitude 33°40′ north, longitude 101°49′west, 1000 m elev) in mid June from 2004 to the present; mean rainfallis 483 mm annually with a mean of 320 mm during the growing season;temperatures range from an average low of −4° C. and an average high of11° C. in January to an average low of 20° C. and an average high of 33°C. in July. The nursery was planted on 101 cm beds. The nursery wasrainfed. The fertility was 30 units of nitrogen.

In developing sesame varieties for the United States, there are sevencharacters that are desirable for successful crops: SHAKER SHATTERRESISTANCE (Character No. 23), IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING(Character No. 26), COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE (Character No. 35), DAYSTO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 30), YIELD AT DRYDOWN(Character 11), SEED COLOR (Character No. 33), and SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDSFROM 10CAP TEST (Character No. 34). The first four characters contributeto YIELD AT DRYDOWN which is the most important economic factor normallyconsidered by a farmer in the selection of a variety. The last twocharacters determine the market value of the seed.

SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE and IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATINGdetermine how well the plants will retain the seed while they are dryingdown in adverse weather.

COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE determines whether the plants can finish theircycle and have the optimum seed fill.

DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY determines how far north and to whichelevation the varieties can be grown.

In improving the characters, the YIELD AT DRYDOWN has to be comparableto or better than current varieties, or provide a beneficial improvementfor a particular geographical or market niche.

In the United States and Europe, the SEED COLOR is important since over95% of the market requires white or buff seed. There are limited marketsfor gold and black seed in the Far East. All other colors can only beused in the oil market.

SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM 10CAP TEST determines the market for theseed. Lack of COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE can reduce SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDSFROM 10CAP TEST. In parts of the United States where there is littlerain in dry years, the lack of moisture can reduce the SEED WEIGHT—100SEEDS FROM 10CAP TEST.

There are other characters important in developing commercial sesamevarieties explained in Langham, D. R. and T. Wiemers, 2002. “Progress inmechanizing sesame in the US through breeding”, In: J. Janick and A.Whipkey (ed.), Trends in new crops and new uses, ASHS Press, Alexandria,Va. BRANCHING STYLE (Character No. 1), HEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No.5), HEIGHT OF FIRST CAPSULE (Character No. 6), and PRESENCE OF PYGMYGENE (Character No. 10) are important in combining. CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH(Character No. 7), NUMBER OF CAPSULE NODE PAIRS (Character No. 8),AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE (Character No. 9), and SEEDWEIGHT PER CAPSULE (Character No. 19) are important in creatingpotential YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character No. 11). LEAF DIMENSIONS(Characters No. 13, 14, 15, and 16) are important in determining optimumpopulations.

NUMBER OF CAPSULES PER LEAF AXIL (Character No. 2), NUMBER OF CARPELSPER CAPSULE (Character No. 17), CAPSULE LENGTH (Character No. 18),CAPSULE WEIGHT PER CAPSULE (Character No. 20), and CAPSULE WEIGHT PER CMOF CAPSULE (Character No. 21) are important in breeding for VISUAL SEEDRETENTION (Character No. 22) and IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING(Character No. 26) which lead to testing for SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE(Character No. 23) and determining the CAPSULE SHATTERING TYPE(Character No. 24), NON-DEHISCENT TEST (Character 25) and IMPROVEDNON-DEHISCENT TEST (Character No. 27).

DAYS TO FLOWERING (Character No. 28), DAYS TO FLOWER TERMINATION(Character No. 29), DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 30),and MATURITY CLASS (Character No. 3) are highly correlated and importantin determining the phenology and geographical range for the variety.

DAYS TO DIRECT HARVEST (Character No. 31) is important in that once theplants reach physiological maturity there is no weather event that willincrease yield and many weather events that may substantially lower theyield. A shorter drying phase increases yield. PLANT PHENOTYPE(Character No. 4) is a summary character of characters 1, 2, and 3 thatallows an overall visualization of the line.

RESISTANCE TO DROUGHT (Character No. 12) becomes important in reducingyield and seed weight. Even though there was a drought in the growingareas in 2006 and 2008, there has not been a drought in nurseriesplanted since 2000 because of irrigation. LODGING RESISTANCE (CharacterNo. 32) is important in years when there are high winds in the growingareas. The resistance characters (Characters No. 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41,42, 43, and 44) are important in reducing the losses from diseases andpests.

Over the past 32 years, Sesaco has tested over 3,000 introductions fromall over the world. Commercial samples have been obtained from China,India, Sudan, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Mozambique, Pakistan,Myanmar, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Egypt, Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua,Venezuela, Thailand, Turkey, Upper Volta, Uganda, Mali, Kenya,Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Philippines, Colombia, Ivory Coast,Gambia, Somalia, Eritrea, Paraguay, Bolivia, and El Salvador. Additionalresearch seed has been received from the commercial countries and frommany other countries such as Australia, Iraq, Iran, Japan, Russia,Jordan, Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Angola, Argentina, Peru,Brazil, Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Gabon, Greece, Italy, SouthKorea, Libya, Nepal, Zaire, England and Tanzania. Research seed receivedfrom one country may have originated from another unspecified country.All of the commercial and research introductions have CAPSULE SHATTERINGTYPE (Character No. 24) of shattering, “SHA”.

Using selected characters from Table II, Table III provides a characterdifferentiation between S70 and name cultivars from all over the world.

TABLE III Character Differentiation of Various Sesame Varieties ^(a)Character Rating Name cultivars tested by Sesaco CAPSULE SHA Eliminatethe following from SHATTERING TYPE the world: (Character No. 24) FromVenezuela: Venezuela 51, Venezuela 52, Guacara, Aceitera, Inamar,Acarigua, Morada, Capsula Larga, Arawaca, Piritu, Glauca, Turen, DV9,Fonucla, UCLA From Mexico: Pachequeno, Yori, Anna, Teras, Denisse,Canasta, Tehvantepeter From India: TMV1, TMV3 From Turkey: Ozberk,Muganli, Gamdibi, Marmara From Israel: DT45 From Guatemala: R198, R30From Paraguay: Escoba and INIA. From Texas: Llano, Margo, Dulce,Blanco,Paloma, Oro, Renner 1 and 2, Early Russian From California: UCR3,UCR4, Eva, Calinda (Cal Beauty) From Thailand: KU18 From Korea: Danback,Gwansan, Pungyiong,Suweon, Yuseong, Hanseon, Ahnsan, Kwangsan, Jinback,Pungsan, Sodan, Yangheuk, Konheuk, Whaheuck, Sungboon SSH Eliminate fromSesaco: S02, S03, S04, S05, S06, S07, S08, S09, S10, S12, S14 IDEliminate the following from the world: From Venezuela: G2, Morada idFrom Texas: Rio, Delco, Baco, Improved Baco, Roy, Eli From SouthCarolina: Palmetto From California: UCR234 From Sesaco: S01 SR Allothers, go to NON- DEHISCENT TEST NON-DEHISCENT XX Eliminate fromSesaco: S11, S15, TEST (Character No. 25) S16, S17, S18, S19, S20, S21ND All others to the Improved NON- DEHISCENT TEST IMPROVED NON- ZZEliminate from Sesaco: 11W, 19A, DEHISCENT S22, S23, S24, S25, S26, TESTS28, S29, S55 (all of these (Character No. 27) lines and varieties havebeen disclosed in previous patents, and there are no lines or varietiesthat are not included.) IND From Sesaco: S27, S30, S32, and S70, go toPRESENCE OF PYGMY GENE PRESENCE OF NO Eliminate from Sesaco: S27, S30,PYGMY GENE and S32 YES S70. Go to Table IV to compare charactersaffected by the pygmy gene: HEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No 5), HEIGHT OFFIRST CAPSULE (Character No 6), and AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHINCAPSULE ZONE (Character No 9) ^(a) SHA = shattering; SSH =semi-shattering; ID = indehiscent; SR = shatter resistant; XX = notnon-dehiscent according to the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,452; ND= non-dehiscent according to the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 6,100,452;ZZ = not Improved non-dhiscent; IND = improved non-dehiscent accordingto the teachings of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/041,257

Table IV compares the critical pygmy characters against the previouslypatented Sesaco varieties grown side by side in the 2008 Uvalde nurseryin four replications. S70 is considerably shorter with a lower height ofthe first capsule, more capsule node pairs, and a shorter internodelength than all previously developed Sesaco varieties.

TABLE IV Comparison of S70 to previously patented sesame varieties No.Character S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S32 S55 S70 5 HEIGHT OF PLANT (cm) 123135 124 126 124 131 145 123 85 6 HEIGHT OF FIRST CAPSULE (cm) 49 53 5253 44 43 53 53 27 8 NUMBER OF CAPSULE NODE PAIRS 21 22 25 22 23 24 25 2428 9 AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH 3.5 3.8 2.9 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.6 3.0 2.1 WITHINCAPSULE ZONE (cm) 10 PRESENCE OF PYGMY GENE NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO YES

Table V compares S70 to S26, S28, S30, S32, and S55, the currentcommercial varieties. When specified by year and nursery, the lines weregrown side by side. The table is in terms of all of the characterslisted in Table II. The major differences in Table V are indicated inthe “Dif” column by a “C” for commercially important differences and an“M” for morphological differences.

TABLE V Character Comparison of S26, S28, S30, S32, S55 and S70^(a) No.Character Year/nursery S26 S28 S30 S32 S55 S70 Dif 1 Branching genotypeAll B B U B B B Style phenotype All B B U B B U 2 Number of Capsules All1 1 1 1 1 1 per Leaf Axil 3 Maturity Class Adjusted PM 99 99 98 98 98 982005-2008 UV M M M M M 4 Plant Phenotype All B1M B1M U1M B1M B1M U1M 5Height of Plant (cm) 2008 UV 135 126 131 145 123 85 C 6 Height of FirstCapsule (cm) 2008 UV 53 53 43 53 53 27 C 7 Capsule Zone Length (cm) 2008UV 81 72 88 91 70 58 C 8 Number of Capsule Node 2008 UV 22 22 24 25 2428 C pairs 9 Average Internode Length 2008 UV 3.8 3.4 3.6 3.6 3.0 2.1 Cwithin Capsule Zone (cm) 10 Presence of pygmy alleles All No No No No NoYes C 11 Yield at Drydown (kg/ha) 2008 UV 1,429 1,381 1,474 1,556 1,2531,220 C 2008 LO 429 511 676 593 514 742 C 12 Resistance to Drought 2000SA Good Good NT NT NT NT 13 Leaf Length (cm) 5^(th) - 2008 UV 28.1 23.016.3 25.5 20.7 14.3 M 10^(th) - 2008 UV 22.3 18.0 18.5 18.3 19.7 15.6 M15^(th) - 2008 UV 15.9 13.7 15.0 14.1 14.5 13.6 14 Leaf Blade Length(cm) 5^(th) - 2008 UV 16.6 13.8 10.7 14.8 13.6 10.2 10^(th) - 2008 UV16.8 14.4 14.3 14.7 15.4 13.2 M 15^(th) - 2008 UV 13.3 11.5 12.5 12.211.9 11.5 15 Leaf Blade Width (cm) 5^(th) - 2008 UV 23.0 18.0 10.5 13.810.0 6.0 M 10^(th) - 2008 UV 5.4 3.6 3.0 3.0 4.1 3.3 15^(th) - 2008 UV2.6 2.0 2.0 1.6 2.7 2.2 16 Petiole Length (cm) 5^(th) - 2008 UV 11.5 9.25.6 10.7 7.1 4.1 M 10^(th) - 2008 UV 5.5 3.6 4.2 3.6 4.3 3.3 15^(th) -2008 UV 2.6 2.3 2.4 2.0 2.6 2.2 17 Number of Carpels per All 2 2 2 2 2 2Capsule 18 Capsule Length (cm) 1997-2008 All 2.25 2.26 2.27 2.13 2.402.11 19 Seed Weight per Capsule (g) 1997-2008 All 0.233 0.227 0.2600.228 0.211 0.221 20 Capsule Weight per Capsule (g) 1997-2008 All 0.1620.162 0.167 0.147 0.149 0.133 M 21 Capsule Weight per cm of 1997-2008All 0.072 0.072 0.073 0.069 0.062 0.063 Capsule (g) 22 Visual SeedRetention All W W I I W I C 23 Shaker Shatter Resistance (%) 1997-2008All 73.0 75.0 77.8 75.8 70.8 77.4 C 24 Capsule Shattering Type All SR SRSR SR SR SR 25 Non-dehiscent Test All ND ND ND ND ND ND 26 ImprovedNon-dehiscent 2008 UV 6.5 6.2 7.2 7.0 6.8 7.5 C visual rating 2008 LO6.3 6.3 7.4 7.2 7.0 7.4 C 27 Improved Non-dehiscent Test All ZZ ZZ INDIND ZZ IND C 28 Days to Flowering 2008 UV 50 48 36 38 40 38 29 Days toFlower Termination 2008 UV 83 82 75 77 77 74 30 Days to Physiological2008 UV 110 109 101 106 99 98 C Maturity 31 Days to Direct Harvest 2008UV 146 146 139 141 149 141 32 Lodging Resistance 2007 UV 6.6 7.0 7.3 6.27.4 7.3 C 2007 LO 5.0 5.3 7.9 7.1 8.0 8.0 C 33 Seed Color All BF BF BFBF BLK BF C 34 Seed Weight - 100 Seeds 1997-2008 All 0.330 0.329 0.3170.311 0.328 0.326 C from 10 cap test (g) 35 Composite Kill Resistance2008 UV 7.3 7.3 6.9 6.5 6.8 7.2 C 36 Resistance to Fusarium Wilt NT NTNT NT NT NT (F. oxysporum) 37 Resistance to Phytophtora NT NT NT NT NTNT Stem Rot (P. parasitica) 38 Resistance to Charcoal Rot NT NT NT NT NTNT (Macrophomina phaseoli) 39 Resistance to Bacterial Black 2004 UV 7.07.0 8.0 8.0 NT NT Rot (Pseudomonas sesami) 40 Resistance to Silverleaf2007 UV NEC NEC NEC NEC NEC NEC Whitefly (Bemisia argentifolii) 41Resistance to Green Peach 2004 UV 8.0 7.9 8.0 5.5 NT NT Aphid (Myzuspersica) 42 Resistance to Pod Borer 2001 UV NEC NT NT NT NT NT(Heliothis spp.) 43 Resistance to Army Worms NT NT NT NT NT NT(Spodoptera spp.) 44 Resistance to Cabbage 2007 UV NEC NEC NEC NEC NECNEC Loopers (Pieris rapae) ^(a)B = true branches; U = uniculm (no truebranches); UV = Uvalde nursery; M = medium maturity class of 95-104days; B1M = phenotype of true branches, single capsules per leaf axil,and medium maturity class of 95-104 days; U1M = phenotype of uniculm,single capsules per leaf axil, and medium maturity class of 95-104 days;LO = Lorenzo nursery; NT = not tested; W = weather visual seedretention >75%; SR = shatter resistant; ND = non-dehiscent; ZZ = notimproved non-dehiscent; IND = improved non-dehiscent; BF = buff color;BLK = black color; and NEC = no economic damage - not enough disease orinsects to do ratings.

The characters SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 23), IMPROVEDNON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING (Character No. 26), HEIGHT OF PLANT(Character No. 5), HEIGHT OF FIRST CAPSULE (Character No. 6), CAPSULEZONE LENGTH (Character No. 7), NUMBER OF CAPSULE NODE PAIRS (CharacterNo. 8), AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE (Character No. 9),PRESENCE OF PYGMY ALLELES (Character No. 10), COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE(Character No. 35), DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No. 30),YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character No. 11), LODGING RESISTANCE (Character No.32), SEED COLOR (Character No. 33), and SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM 10CAPTEST (Character No. 34) will be discussed further below with respect tothe patented varieties S25, S26, S27, S28, S29, S30, S32, and S55.

FIG. 2 provides the SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 23). Thevarieties patented have SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE in the low to high70s. Selection criteria for 10cap testing are based in VISUAL SEEDRETENTION (Character No. 22). The 10cap testing provides the SHAKERSHATTER RESISTANCE percentages. The S70 SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE isclose to S30 and higher than the other commercial varieties.

FIG. 3 provides the IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUAL RATING (Character No.26) which provides the data for the IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT TEST(Character No. 27). SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (Character No. 23)represents the amount of seed that is retained by the plant severalmonths after being dry in the field. This standard was developed as aminimum standard in 1997-1998 and has proven to be a good predictor ofshatter resistance. However, when the plants have reached DAYS TO DIRECTHARVEST (Character No. 31), the plants are holding more than the seedrepresented by the SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE percentage. If there is norain, fog, dew, or wind during the drying phase, the plants will beretaining almost all of their seed for the combine. However, in theUnited States, rain and wind are prevalent in the Fall as the sesame isdrying. From the time that a capsule is dry, the amount of shatterresistance begins to deteriorate. The IMPROVED NON-DEHISCENT VISUALRATING sets a new benchmark for selecting varieties: the line has tohave a rating of 7 or higher 4 weeks after DAYS TO DIRECT HARVEST (theideal harvest time). S30, S32, and S70 are the only commercial varietiesthat meet this new standard as shown in FIG. 3 which compared thepatented varieties in a side by side comparison in two nurseries in2008.

FIG. 4 provides the plant architecture by depicting the HEIGHT OF THEFIRST CAPSULE (Character No. 6) and the CAPSULE ZONE LENGTH (CharacterNo. 7). Together, these add up to the HEIGHT OF PLANT (Character No. 5).The PRESENCE OF PYGMY ALLELES (Character No. 10) determines theexpression of these three characters. The HEIGHT OF PLANT is importantin combining the crop in that when plants are tall, the reel on theheader will push the plants forward before pulling them back into theheader. This rough handling of the plants shakes seed out in front ofthe combine which falls to the ground before the header can reach thefalling seed. With the short HEIGHT OF PLANT of S70, the reel pulls theplants into the header without pushing them away first, and thus, thereis less shattering in front of the combine. Although the HEIGHT OF FIRSTCAPSULE is shorter than the rest of the varieties, there is still enoughspace for the combine header to get under the lowest capsule in mostenvironments. The exception is hilly terrain which to a certain extentalso affects the other varieties.

FIG. 5 provides the AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE(Character No. 9). In the world germplasm there are many short linesthat do not have commercially suitable yields because the short heightlimits the amount of production on the plant. The pygmy gene shortensthe AVERAGE INTERNODE LENGTH WITHIN CAPSULE ZONE allowing a higherNUMBER OF CAPSULE NODE PAIRS (Character No. 8). S70 has a higher numberof node pairs than the patented varieties as shown in FIG. 6 comparingthe lines in a side-by-side comparison. The pygmy alleles allow for thishigher number, but not all pygmy lines have a higher number. Conversely,there are very tall lines that have more node pairs than S70, but theselines are difficult to combine because of their HEIGHT OF PLANT.

FIG. 7 provides the COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE (Character No. 35).COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE is a composite rating of resistance to threeroot rots: Fusarium, Phytophtora, and Macrophomina. In most years,Fusarium is the major cause of kill. When sesame is first introducedinto a growing area, there are few disease problems, but over time thespores of these fungi accumulate, and disease resistance becomesimportant. When sesame was first introduced in Uvalde in 1988, theyields were high. As farmers planted on the same fields in subsequentyears, the yields decreased. S70 has a commercially acceptable COMPOSITEKILL RESISTANCE and better than all but 2 of the patented varieties.

FIG. 8 provides the mean DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY (Character No.30). In the United States, sesame is currently grown from South Texas tomid Kansas. The growing window of a crop is determined by the earliestthe crop can be planted in the spring as the ground warms up, and theonset of cold weather in the fall. Current sesame varieties requireabout 21° C. ground temperature to establish an adequate population. Inmost years, the ground is warm enough in South Texas in middle April andin southern Kansas in late May. Current sesame varieties require nighttemperatures above 5° C. for normal termination. In most years, thenight temperatures are warm enough in South Texas until middle Novemberand in southern Kansas until middle October. There have been years whencold fronts affect the growth of sesame in the middle of September inthe north. East of Lubbock, Tex., the elevations begin climbing towardsthe Rocky Mountains, and there are later warm temperatures in the springand earlier cold temperatures in the fall. In all years, if the sesameis planted as early as temperatures allow, lines with DAYS TOPHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY of 105 days or less will have no problems.However, most areas are rainfed, and it is essential to have a plantingrain before planting the sesame. Thus, the earlier the DAYS TOPHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY of the variety, the more flexibility the farmershave with planting date. The DAYS TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY for S70 is98 days which allows it to be planted in all of the current sesamegrowing areas. It also comparable to the S25 variety which was theearliest commercial ND variety in the United States.

FIG. 9 provides the mean YIELD AT DRYDOWN (Character 11) in Uvalde andLorenzo in 2008. In releasing a new variety, another importantconsideration is whether the yields (YIELD AT DRYDOWN) will becomparable or better than the existing varieties. The yields of S70 arelower than most of the current commercial varieties in Uvalde and otherareas with high moisture, but in areas with low moisture such asLorenzo, S70 has outyielded the other commercial lines for the pastthree years. By being shorter, S70 devotes less resources to makingstems, leaves, and capsules, and is able to direct the scarce moistureinto making more seed.

FIG. 10 provides the mean SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE 10CAP TEST(Character No. 34). For the past 30 years, the lower threshold for seedsize in the U.S. markets has been 0.30 g. All of the patented varietiessurpass this threshold. The hulled market is the premium use of sesamein the United States and Europe. In recent years, hulled sesameprocessors have been increasing the specifications of SEED WEIGHT—100SEEDS FROM THE 10CAP TEST to between 0.33 and 0.35 g, with the largerseed preferable for hulled products used on top of breads and buns. Todate, the Sesaco varieties with the highest SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROMTHE 10CAP TEST have had marginal SHAKER SHATTER RESISTANCE (CharacterNo. 23) and poor COMPOSITE KILL RESISTANCE (Character No. 35). Mostmarkets have no specifications on seed weight, but larger seed is stilldesirable. The mean SEED WEIGHT—100 SEEDS FROM THE 10CAP TEST for S70 iscomparable to the premier seed of S26 and S28 and meets thespecifications for the majority of the U.S. market.

FIG. 11 provides the LODGING RESISTANCE (Character No. 32). In theUnited States sesame growing areas there are strong winds that affectall crops. The wind speed is dependent on the height from the groundwith lower speeds closer to the ground. With a low HEIGHT OF PLANT(Character No. 5) S70 sesame presents a lower profile to the wind andthus has a good rating for lodging.

SEED COLOR (Character No. 33) is the last important character and S70 isthe same (buff) as the other commercial varieties.

The leaf dimensions (LEAF LENGTH—Character No. 13, LEAF BLADELENGTH—Character No. 14, LEAF BLADE WIDTH—Character No. 15, and PETIOLELENGTH—Character No. 16) are somewhat smaller than previously developedND and IND varieties. However, it has been found that the leaf area isadequate for photosynthesis required to produce a commercially suitableyield. The CAPSULE WEIGHT PER CAPSULE (Character No. 24) ismorphologically different from the other varieties in Table V. However,though useful for morphology the capsule weight per capsule does notprovide a commercially significant variable.

S70 exhibits similar values for other characteristics noted or testedfor ND and IND varieties, except those discussed above.

On May 14, 2008, a deposit of at least 2500 seeds of sesame plant S70was made by Sesaco Corporation under the provisions of the BudapestTreaty with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC), 10801University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209, and the deposit wasgiven ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272. This deposit will be maintained inthe ATCC depository for a period of 30 years or 5 years after the lastrequest or for the enforceable life of the patent, whichever is longer.Should the seeds from the sesame line S70 deposited with the AmericanType Culture Collection become nonviable, the deposit will be replacedby Sesaco Corporation upon request.

The foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way ofillustration and characters for purposes of clarity and understanding.However, it will be obvious that certain changes and modifications maybe practiced within the scope of the invention as limited only by thescope of the appended claims.

1. A seed of sesame variety designated S70, a sample of said seed havingbeen deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272.
 2. A sesame plantproduced by growing the seed of sesame variety S70, a sample of saidseed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272.
 3. Pollenof said sesame plant of claim
 2. 4. A sesame plant having all thephysiological and morphological characteristics of sesame variety S70, asample of the seed of said variety having been deposited under ATCCAccession No. PTA-9272.
 5. A tissue culture of regenerable cellsproduced from seed of sesame variety S70, a sample of said seed havingbeen deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272.
 6. A tissue culture ofregenerable cells produced from sesame plant S70 produced by growing theseed of sesame variety S70, a sample of said seed having been depositedunder ATCC Accession No. PTA-9272.
 7. A sesame plant regenerated from atissue culture of regenerable cells produced from seed of sesame varietyS70, a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC AccessionNo. PTA-9272, wherein said regenerated sesame plant has all thephysiological and morphological characteristics of said sesame varietyS70.
 8. A sesame plant regenerated from a tissue culture of regenerablecells produced from a sesame plant produced by growing the seed ofsesame variety S70, a sample of said seed having been deposited underATCC Accession No. PTA-9272, wherein said regenerated sesame plant hasall the physiological and morphological characteristics of said sesamevariety S70.
 9. A method of producing sesame seed, comprising crossing afirst parent sesame plant with a second parent sesame plant andharvesting the resultant sesame seed, wherein said first or secondparent sesame plant was produced by growing seed of sesame variety S70,a sample of said seed having been deposited under ATCC Accession No.PTA-9272.